Lille coach Rene Girard has urged supporters to keep faith as the team places a greater focus on bringing through youth players.

The 59-year-old, who was named as Rudi Garcia's replacement last week, does not believe that the new approach will make Les Dogues less competitive in Ligue 1 next season.

"It will be apparent the last five seasons have been really extraordinary for LOSC, at national and European level," he told the club's official website.

"I just want to say to those who love the club - do not worry, we have a good team again this season.

"It will probably be a little less mature than in the past, but that is a direction that LOSC will use, to build on the young shoots of the training centre."

Girard left Montpellier HSC at the end of the season.

Written by
Michael Penkman