M’Baye Niang chooses France while Saint-Etienne sign Steed Malbranque - Ligue 1 news
Stade Malherbe de Caen introduced a new talent to Ligue 1 in the final few weeks of the 2010/2011 Ligue 1 campaign.
At the age of just 16, M’Baye Niang made his debut for Caen and went on to score three goals in seven league games. Since his exploits, the youngster has become one of the most coveted players in the French league.
Reports suggest that English Premier League big-spenders Manchester City are keen on signing the youngster while other European clubs are also interested in the services of the Meulan-born striker.
For weeks, much has been said about the youngster’s choice to play for either Senegal or for France. Though Niang is of Senegalese descent, he has represented France at Under 16 and Under 17 levels. However, the youngster spoke of his desire to play for
Senegal in July 2011.
With his national future still uncertain, the youngster has now made a final decision regarding his loyalties and has said that he will play for France’s national team in the future.
While talking to the media, the youngster said, “After discussing with my family, I chose to represent France. It was a difficult choice for me because I’m attached to both countries. I want to say that I’m truly grateful to http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Senegal-c3001 for trusting me.”
Meanwhile, AS Saint-Etienne have completed the signing of Steed Malbranque from English Premier League side Sunderland. The 31-year-old winger had been linked with a move to Stade Geoffroy-Guichard for a long time following the departure of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Dimitri-Payet-c11276
to LOSC Lille.
A statement of Saint-Etienne’s official website read, “It is official! http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Steed-Malbranque-c33957 has joined Etienne. The 30-year-old midfielder has been great wherever he has gone and has signed a two-year contract with ASSE.”
The former Lyon man returns to http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/France-c2899 after almost 10 years. In 2001, Malbranque joined Fulham from Lyon. Since then, the Belgian-born midfielder has had stints at Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland. Malbranque made 102 league appearances for Sunderland but
was told by the Black Cats’ coach Steve Bruce that he might not feature a lot in his side next season.
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