Lyon chairman pleased to keep hold of Bafetimbi Gomis

Lyon chairman Jean-Michael Aulas has said that striker Bafetimbi Gomis will be a "key reinforcement" after he opted to stay with the Ligue 1 club.

The 28-year-old rejected a move to Newcastle United during the summer after talks regarding personal terms broke down.

"We have to consider him as a reinforcement and I am convinced he could be a key reinforcement," Aulas told L'Equipe. "I am happy he is with us. The club needs him."

Gomis has scored 53 goals in 143 appearances for Lyon.