Football Season Guide

Saint-Etienne were favourites to win promotion from Ligue 2 last season but fell short due to a catastrophic run of form late in olthe season as they won only 3 of their last 8. Hampered throughout by injury problems, particularly in the defence, while they lacked a strong mentality in their squad, failing to respond to the pressure that was undoubtedly on them. New manager in the form of Ian Cathro, who is regarded as a strong coach and tactician, but who has previously enjoyed all of his success in Portugal. Squad has seen several experienced players leave, most notably Florian Tardieu, but majority of those who regularly get minutes remain. Several comparatively low-cost, young players added. With the core of the squad remaining the same, the expectation for Saint-Etienne is high. Friendly results have been disappointing, but they have played strong opponents whose seasons start before Ligue 2. Strength is clearly going forward. Finished 2nd top scorers in the league last season with 59 goals in 34 games. Depth up front is strong, so if Lucas Stassin leaves before the deadline, there is still depth, most notably in the form of Zuriko Davitishvili, who was their star player last season. Biggest weakness is doubts over the defence, both in terms of its quality and ability to stay fit. Made several signings here last season but none of them worked. Only Sohaib Nair has come into this area to strengthen it – and he missed much of last season due to injury last term.