Echouafni: 'Happy to get back in action!'

Coach, the preseason is nearly over... How has it been?

"Winning our three friendlies is very good for our confidence. We couldn't wait to get back to the competition and we have done it pretty well. Obviously there's still a lot to work on, but we're on the right track. The players are very focused. They work well and are very motivated," he said. "We're going to have to step up the intensity. Four weeks is still a bit short, but I know my players are capable of doing even better. That will be the goal for the next few weeks."

How do you judge these first friendly results?

"The team has shown that it is capable of creating chances and scoring goals. That's a good thing because that's the most difficult thing. Defensively, we have been solid, even if we conceded a few goals in the first two games. The aim of the third game was not keep a clean sheet and we did that and that's good. We're in good form and we need to keep going. The next Coupe de France match will be of a completely different calibre, but we'll be ready."

How are you approaching this semi-final against Bordeaux?
"Our last official game was at the end of February. Five months later, we're happy to be back competing and with the chance to finish this Coupe de France. I think Bordeaux are happy too. This match is very important because there's a place in the final to be won, and because both teams will be ready for the game. The aim will also be to conclude these five weeks of preparation in the best possible way."