RC Lens seek calm after Lille collapse as Pierre Sage challenges underperformers before Toulouse tests | OneFootball

RC Lens have entered their first rough spell of the season, with Pierre Sage challenging underperformers as a decisive double header with Toulouse looms.

L'Équipe reports that the squad played down the mental impact of the PSG match postponement from 11 April to 13 May. Lens had gone into the break after a 5-1 win over Angers on 20 March, but a 0-3 derby defeat at Lille on 4 April effectively ended their Ligue 1 title push.

Sage then hardened his tone, highlighting the attitudes of several individuals, including senior figures. Disappointment lingered after a 2-1 friendly against National side Rouen, and he held individual talks then addressed the group, framing the moment as repair work.

The coach did not rule out shaking up perceived hierarchies, noting he wants sustained training responses and would change players who see themselves as potential starters if required for the team.

He also sought to cool speculation around Samson Baidoo, saying the defender never refused to train and that absence from matches was health related. The Austrian, at 2.39 points per game with him and 1.6 without, has trained for more than two weeks after late January hamstring trouble and an early February relapse, but medical caution delayed his return.

Lens now hit a decisive stretch, aiming to secure a Ligue 1 podium for direct Champions League qualification and to pursue their Coupe de France dream. Toulouse visit in the league before Tuesday’s semi-final against the same opponents.

Source: L'Équipe