Lyon keeper ponders future

The 33-year-old has been out of action since the spring after having damaged his cruciate ligament.

Vercoutre’s contract with Lyon is set to expire at the end of the season and they have been no talks over a new deal.

“I broached the subject with the coach a few months ago,” Vercoutre told L’Equipe. “But there is nothing new yet.

“My objective so far is to make l’OL win to be more respected in Le Championnat again.

“I am now preparing myself just like I would play. Now, it will be up to the coach. I want to play.”

He added: “During six months, I experienced very difficult periods. I had surgery and surgery again.

“Now, I am completely reassured about my physical abilities. I have never worked on my fitness so hard.

“Once, I regretted a lack of support from the club. I said I didn’t see a lot of people and only received a few text messages. In any firm, you believe there are a lot of friends and a lot of affection around you. But in the end it is just insubstantial.”