Folarin Balogun on seven-game Ligue 1 streak, the American chasing Sonny Anderson | OneFootball

Folarin Balogun has scored in his past seven Ligue 1 matches for Monaco, a select 21st-century streak that does not even include Zlatan. Monaco face Auxerre at 15:00 on Sunday in matchday 30.

At Friday's La Turbie session, the 24-year-old briefly had part of a foot taped before training resumed. According to L'ÉEquipe, coach Sébastien Pocognoli later played down any concern, suggesting the tape had simply been too tight.

If he scores against Auxerre, he would match Rony Lopes's run of eight successive Ligue 1 games with a goal for Monaco in spring 2018. He could then chase Sonny Anderson's 10-game finish to the 2000-2001 season with Lyon.

Staff influence, including former Lille player Kevin Mirallas, has often been highlighted in his transformation, alongside Monaco's improved physical output. This spree includes five goals after the 55th minute, a contrast with his profligate night against Galatasaray in early December before later delivering for Monaco.

Pocognoli regards Balogun as clear-eyed about what needs work and responsive to the challenges set by the staff. He has placed strong faith in his striker, edging Mika Biereth down the pecking order, and has pushed improvements in heading, back-to-goal play, link-ups and finishing.

Team-mate Jordan Teze points to sharper service and a game plan that targets Balogun's runs into space. The American now has 17 goals in all competitions this season, aligning with expectations after his €30m move, excluding bonuses, in summer 2023.

Source: L'Équipe