Christophe Galtier: 'Everyone is looking forward to this big game'

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The Paris Saint-Germain coach answered questions from PSG TV and the media ahead of the matchday 31 game against RC Lens at the Parc des Princes on Saturday 15 April at 21:00. Here are some extracts.

the win in nice

"It was important for us to get back to winning ways after two poor performances at home. We were able to turn things around by playing in a different way than in the previous games. With this victory, we regained confidence and were able to work calmly on the pitch. The players were focused and attentive."

the week in training

"It was very hard, but I sought refuge in the work with my players and my staff to work in the best possible way before this big game. It allowed me to escape from what was being said about me. I didn't talk to my players about this. However, they provided me with the best response: full commitment to the training sessions. I have had many messages of support, I have also seen the public support from the directors, players and coaches in particular. These are such difficult moments that makes you appreciate these messages.

We're talking about something outside of sport here, so I obviously didn't expect to experience this when I arrived at the club. I knew that in this position I would be under a lot of pressure, comments, analysis and criticism. But the most important thing is my job and my relationship with the players. I have read the press releases from the supporters' groups. I have no doubt that all the fans and the Parc des Princes will be behind the team to get this important victory. I enjoyed being with my group to prepare for this big Ligue 1 clash. Everyone is looking forward to this game. My players have been very focused. They were focused and involved throughout the week."

the game against lens

"We'll have to be better than in our last few games in terms of technique. We will also have to have more presence in the opponent's box. Lens are a team with a very good defence, but they are also a team that attacks in numbers. In the first game, we found it difficult to break through their pressure and we were caught off guard. We'll have to be able to get back into position quickly to contain the opposition's transitions. We know that they are one of the best teams in this league.

They have been in great form all season. This is due to the players but also to the work of the coach Franck Haise for a number of seasons. Lens press a lot and are very active in recovering the ball. Then, they like transitions. We'll have to be very careful and focused on these phases, which we didn't do well in the first leg. It's important to have a great performance on Saturday night."

the full press conference