Radamel Falcao calls for calm

AS Monaco striker Radamel Falcao has said that there is no reason to panic despite last night's 2-1 defeat at home to Valenciennes.

The Colombian striker, who had spent the last four games out with a thigh injury, missed a penalty on his return as the relegation battlers came out on top at Stade Louis II.

Claudio Ranieri's side would have gone top of Ligue 1 overnight had they taken three points, but Paris Saint-Germain will have the chance to go five clear when they welcome Lille to Parc des Princes on Sunday.

"I came back with a lot of desire, but unfortunately we missed all of our opportunities," the 27-year-old told reporters. "I missed a penalty, for instance.

"This kind of match leaves a very bitter taste in the mouth, but, if we take stock of the season so far, we do not need to worry like crazy. We must remain calm, serene and continue to work to come back stronger after Christmas."

The Monegasque outfit get the 2014 Ligue 1 action underway in January away to Montpellier HSC.