Jean Tigana feels his Fulham side which stormed to the Division One title last term could have challenged for the French title.
The French legend, speaking to the press in homeland as Fulham tune up for their pre-season programme in Luxembourg, spoke with pride of his achievements at Craven Cottage in what he insists will be his final job in an illustrious career. Asked to compare his new charges achievements with the standard of football in France, Tigana gave a commendably frank answer:
“It is simple. With the team of last season, which played in the Second Division (First Division in England), we would challenge for the French title. Listen, even if they were only friendly matches, we all the same won in Rennes, Bordeaux and Marseille.”
Tigana gave short shrift to Mohamed Al-Fayed’s suggestion that the Whites could win the top flight, admitting:
“It is another world in the Premiership. It has been 33 years for the club. This lack of experience will certainly be our weakness They are the words and the wish of Mr Al Fayed. You know, at the beginning, everyone thought he was insane. “Fulham was in the third tier and he spoke about the Premiership. Today, we are there. We will build a new ground with more than 30,000 capacity next year. We already have a training centre that will be further improved. Our budget allows us to compete to recruit everyone.”
The Fulham boss also revealed he is settled in London, but will ready to retire to his vineyard in Cassis when his time at the capital’s oldest professional clubs comes to a close.
“I look at French football but keep quiet about it as usual. We are perceived positively here because French football is successful. There is respect for our clubs, our trainers and our players. We are proud to be French abroad. “I am still under contract for two years, plus two others if I want it. I have indeed the will to turn the football page after this adventure. It is 30 years since I left my house. I would like a little to return home. Now it is a wish.”
