Bolo, you look like you’re in form at the moment, is it because you have been in pre-season preparation from the start this season  (lastseason he arrived for the second training camp) ?
Yes, all of it and it’s not over yet. I worked it out and we will have done 6 and a half weeks of work at the end of pre-season. We have a good rhythm with two sessions per day. It’s a change compared to last season.

You weren’t always first choice last season, how do you feel going into the one that is coming up?
I’ve always said it was difficult for me not being first choice last season. But that doesn’t change anything for as far as this year is concerned, I’m still here and my ambition to play is intact. It’s a good sign, as a player who is content to sit on the bench isn’t great to have. I’m up for it and feel great physically. I did, however, have some bad news the other day when one of my teammates pointed out that I was the oldest in the squad, and it’s true. I wasn’t happy though as I’m only 31! I just think it means that ours quad is quite young, rather than anything else.

Have you spoken to the coach about the role you could have this season?
We haven’t spoken to each other about that. For the moment, the coach is observing rather than speaking. It’s a side of him that we didn’t know as, when he arrived, he was obliged to discuss and organise things. For now, he’s waiting and keeping an eye on the new players. Slowly but surely he’ll put things how he wants them.

Anyway, you must have appreciated your superb free kick against Bastia last week …
Yes. It was the first of the year. Hopefully there will be more to come and I’ll have to work hard. But, it’s true that it wasn’t too bad. It’s always nice to score like that.