Marseille go top but pay high price

It was a bittersweet day for Marseille on Saturday, as they went to the top of the Ligue 1 table but had Cesar Azpilicueta ruled out for the season.

The 21-year-old Spaniard left the field early during Marseille’s 4-0 victory over third-placed Montpellier on Saturday after he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligaments in his left knee.

Manager Didier Deschamps confirmed his young defender would not be available to help the champions defend their title.

“His (Azpilicueta) season is over. It’s a huge black mark. We are really disappointed for him, especially as he was in top form,” Deschamps said.

“It is a very sad moment for him. He is a young player of 21 years of age and full of self belief.”

Descahmps must decide whether to replace the injured right-back, with Burkina Faso international Charles Kabore his only the only readily available defender.

The Marseille manager admitted he may take a gamble and wait for the New Year to replenish his stocks.

“We could try and bring one (a defender) in immediately, or we could take a small risk and wait for the transfer window in January,” Deschamps said.

Marseille cling to top spot with a game in hand on both Lille and Montpellier, but Paris Saint-Germain could top the table on Sunday should they beat Lyon.