Lyon´s Aulas maintains European hope

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas said the French club can still qualify for next term’s Champions League, despite a deficit to the top-three.

Remi Garde’s men are six points from the third-placed Lille in the Ligue 1 standings with six matches remaining this season, and are in danger of missing out on Europe’s top tier football competition for the first time since 1999.

But club owner Aulas was firm in his belief that his side can keep up their streak in Europe, by reeling in their rivals over the final month of football.

“It remains a logical possibility to finish third because we are not in a worse position than last year,” Aulas told L’Equipe.

“I also think that winning the Coupe de France is another priority for the players, but third place is my biggest objective as president.”