Winning keeps us fresh, says Galtier

Saint Etienne manager Christophe Galtier hopes his side’s hectic Ligue 1 schedule does not affect their push for a Champions League spot.

Saint Etienne secured a third win in a row with convincing victories over Stade Rennes (4-0) and Lorient (4-2) on Sunday and Wednesday, and now face a third game in seven says away to Auxerre on Saturday.

Their latest haul of nine points in three games, including their game in hand, has propelled the side into fourth, just three points off the qualifying Champions League place.

“The players are not tired, because victories can fix all the light injuries and fatigue. Obviously, some players will be tired. But they will not be more tired than Auxerre,” Galtier said.

“I can switch players and put some new blood without weakening the team. That’s good.”

Saint Etienne have moved up from eighth in early December with three straight wins, and four in five games, to stamp their claim among top sides Lille, Marseille and local rivals Lyon.