Lens target automatisms as defence reshaped for Lorient visit | OneFootball

Beaten 2-1 at Strasbourg last weekend, Lens aim to reset against Lorient on Saturday at 17:15 in Ligue 1 matchday three. According to Le Progres, they must reshape their back three, days before their Champions League bow.

In Strasbourg they had two strong spells, scoring in the first but failing to equalise late on. Between those periods they conceded twice and lost control to a more aggressive home side.

Head coach Dino Toppmöller said Lens can be much stronger in control and rued quick turnovers. He noted that pressing brought chances, but rapid losses of possession sap energy to attack and press.

Similar lapses appeared in the 5-2 win over Auxerre, when they conceded twice with an extra man. He said they are still seeking automatisms, particularly at the back, amid frequent defensive changes and the involvement of youngsters Ismaëlo Ganiou, Souleymane Sagnan and Kyllian Antonio.

Samson Baidoo remains out until at least late October. Maik Nawrocki ruptured a left knee cruciate ligament this week, and right wing-back Saud Abdulhamid is still unavailable.

Kyllian Antonio returns from suspension after his red card against Paris SG in the Trophée des Champions. The 18-year-old could start alongside fellow academy products Ganiou and Sagnan.

Jonathan Gradit could make his first squad since last November’s tibia-fibula fracture. Jean-Clair Todibo, on loan from West Ham since Tuesday, is unlikely to feature, with Toppmöller saying they do not want to risk him, want him available all season, and expect him to bolster the left side.

Source: Le Progres

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