Cédric Blomme, how was this international truce and upset by the Covid?
“Usually there are two phases in a break like this. A first to regenerate and do aerobic work. The second to restore intensity and prepare for the meeting that is coming. This time, we had to adapt. The first week, we only had a few players with whom we interviewed. The second week returned a dozen players who were in isolation and had to get back into shape. “
Where are they at?
“There is a protocol to follow. After seven days of isolation, players must progressively get back into shape. We will take stock this Friday afternoon. They should be able to resume collective training this weekend to prepare for the match in Grenoble. “
What condition is the locker room in?
“There are differences, of course. Some players have trained regularly. Some come back from injury. Others were arrested for a week. Fortunately, seven days is not as bad as a two or three week period for an injury. We tend to say that under ten days, we do not lose too much. “
“We do not know the consequences in the longer term”
How do you feel about the players?
“They have been arrested and are full of envy. From what we can see, there are no alarming signs on the physical level. But we do not know the consequences in the longer term. These Covid cases came just before a dense period with lots of matches. In particular the four who arrive in two weeks against Grenoble, Clermont, Toulouse and Sochaux. There will inevitably be turnover and we will need the entire workforce. We will have a first glimpse of the state of the players in Grenoble. “
Where are Saliou Ciss and Amine Bassi who were stopped by injuries to their adductor muscles?
“They’re coming back little by little. We manage them. Between injuries and Covid, it is a difficult period. There are four days left before the game. We will see. Saliou is a little ahead of Amine. “
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Out of a workforce of 26 or 27, how many players will be suitable for Grenoble?
“It’s difficult to answer. For some, it will be played down to the day. What we are experiencing is brand new. It is not known how organisms will react to stress after contracting the virus. The side effects are not known. I think we will see more clearly on Sunday. At this point, one or two days is very important. All I can say is that the condition of the troops is pretty good. “
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