Wednesday, 2nd October, 2013
Former Arsenal and Napoli target Maxime Gonalons is still pleased at the interest he generated this summer, though his bigger concern is revitalising Lyon's fortunes.
The 2007/08 Ligue 1 winners saw many European clubs linked with Gonalons, who played 35 times in the league last season.
Gonalons has been a one-club man so far, and it yielded rewards with a France debut in 2011, though his tally stands at just six caps.
Regardless, Gonalons remains happy with all the attention, which also saw Arsenal plan a €20m double swoop that included team-mate Clement Grenier.
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When asked if he regretted not seeking pastures new, Gonalons told Le Progres: "I never live with regrets.
"I was flattered to be followed by major European clubs. I still am. But I know I have to stay competitive if [Lyon] are to finish in a high place."
Lyon are currently sitting ninth with just 11 points from eight games, and Gonalons admits the relative youth of the team is a concern.
"There are many players who have got less experience, and our leaders are younger", he added. "But we will try to find solutions together. I do not think we lack leadership.
"We must rediscover victory. In two or three home games in recent times, we have not gone the distance, but we must not give up."
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