Stade Rennais striker Estéban Lepaul, last season's Ligue 1 top scorer, is now four games without a goal. The 26-year-old's drought, his longest since January, is a concern for manager Franck Haise and could threaten his place in Zinédine Zidane's France squad.
The French forward was left on the bench for the trip to Lyon, only coming on in the 68th minute. He managed three shots, two on target, but could not prevent a heavy 4-0 defeat. This loss is part of a tough recent run for Stade Rennais, who have won just one of their last five matches (LDLWL).
Franck Haise's Decision
Franck Haise explained his selection choice. "Overall, there were good things, but we need to add a touch of precision in the final thirty metres," he said after the game. This comment appears aimed directly at attacking efficiency, an area where Lepaul, despite scoring three goals this season, is currently struggling. The manager is clearly trying to provoke a reaction from his star striker.
The France Stakes
This barren spell comes at the worst possible time for Lepaul. Called up for Zidane's first squad list, he now sees his place in the national team looking less secure ahead of the next international break. His match-winning performance against Olympique de Marseille last Friday already feels distant. Stade Rennais, fifth with seven points, need their main goalscorer to help them get back to winning ways.
The squad is fully fit for the run-in, with Przemysław Frankowski back in training after an adductor injury. Several players, including Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, will now join up with their national teams. Stade Rennais's next fixture is the home game against Auxerre at Roazhon Park on October 11th, a key match to turn their form around.
More detail at But! Football Club
