Eight years after his first stop at OM, Cyril Rool has signed for two seasons with Marseille. "I'm very proud to be back. Marseille are not a club that can be refused" he said to us after his first training session.

As they had done in the morning, the public was once again present in the afternoon of the National Holiday. Around fifty of them were present for Cyril Rool’s first training session in his new colours. Having trained with Nice, he was apt to take part in the group sessions straight away. After some short games with the ball and an opposition on half of the pitch, he accepted to answer our questions.

How do you feel after having signed for OM?
I’m very happy. I’m very proud to be able to come back to OM, happy as I’m closer to home now and you do not refuse when Marseille come knocking at the door. It was my first choice, Didier Deschamps, who I know well, was a major factor also.

Did the presence of Didier Deschamps and the participation in the Champions League influence your decision?
Yes, it played a small part but I really couldn’t refuse an offer from Marseille.

What can you bring to the team?
I’m here as back-up but I can bring my humour and my « small » experience. I haven’t arrived with the spotlights on me, but I’m very happy to be here.

Have you spoken to Didier Deschamps about your role?
I spoke to him on the telephone and he said he wanted me as back-up for Taye Taiwo.

At 34 years of age, coming back to OM is a great challenge?
It’s a dream as well as being a challenge. I’m delighted to be finishing my career here.

What would you say to those people who are surprised at your arrival?
I can understand them, I’m not so young anymore, but I will do all I can to prove that I can still do the business out on the field.

Do you feel that signing at OM is an accomplishment for you?
It’s a reward and I’m very proud about it.

You spent one month at OM in 2001. La Commanderie has changed a lot since then. What do you think about the infrastructure now?
It’s magnificent, nothing like before. It’s the sign of a great club. I haven’t seen a training centre like it in France even at Lens with La Gaillette. This is another level all together.