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Jean
Tigana
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JEAN TIGANA feels the Fulham side which
romped the Nationwide League last season would be good enough to challenge
for the French title.
The Cottagers boss has been speaking to the press in his homeland ahead
of the Londoners' pre-season programme, and he reaffirmed that Craven
Cottage will be the last port of call in his footballing career.
When being asked how his side would fare in Le Championnat, Tigana replied
honestly, showing his pride for the side he has built.
"It is simple," he stated. "With the team of last season,
which played in the Second Division (First Division in England), we would
challenge for the French title. "Listen, even if they were only friendly
matches, we all the same won in Rennes, Bordeaux and Marseille. "It
is another world in The Premiership. It has been 33 years for the club.
"This lack of experience will certainly be our weakness."
As for Mohamed Al Fayed's suggestion that Fulham will be hoping to win
the Premiership title next term, Tigana was more realistic.
"They are the words and the wish of Mr Al Fayed," he declared.
"You know, at the beginning, everyone thought he was insane. "Fulham
was in the Third Division (Division Two) and he spoke about The Premiership.
Today, we are there. "We will build a new ground with more than 30,000
capacity next year. We already have a training centre that will be further
improved. "Our budget allows us to compete to recruit everyone."
As for his own future, he is settled in West London and seems to have
clear thoughts about what lies ahead for a former French international
superstar. "I look at French football but keep quiet about it,"
he revealed. "As usual. "We (the French managers) are perceived
positively here because French football is successful. "There is
respect for our clubs, our trainers and our players. We are proud to be
French abroad. "I am still under contract for two years, plus two
others if I want it," he stated.
"I have indeed the will to turn the football page after this adventure."It
is 30 years since I left my house. I would like a little to return home.
"Now it is a wish." When asked if he could move in the long-term
from football to the vineyards, he replied: "Yes, I acquired a new
property with Cassis."
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Source planetfootball by Adam Marshall