Max Gradel has admitted there is a massive difference between playing in England's Championship and France's Ligue 1.
Ivory Coast winger says Championship and Ligue 1 are very different in style
Max Gradel has admitted there is a massive difference between playing in England's Championship and France's Ligue 1.
The former Leeds winger, who scored 18 goals in his last full season at Elland Road, says he needed time to adapt to the style of football after his switch to St Etienne on the final day of this summer's transfer window.
The 24-year-old was born in the Ivory Coast, but came to England from France as a teenager in search of his first professional contract - eventually signing for Leicester City after trials with Arsenal and West Ham.
After three years with the Foxes and loan spells at Bournemouth and Leeds, Gradel eventually moved to Elland Road - playing more than 70 games for the Whites, before St Etienne swooped for his signature.
"It is true there is a big difference between the Championship and Ligue 1," Gradel told French newspaper
L'Equipe.
"In England it is much more open, teams dare a lot more. In France, the game is more secure and tactical.
"But I have watched it closely and I have the right qualities to make a name for myself in France."
Gradel netted his first goal for St Etienne in the 3-1 win over AC Ajaccio on Saturday.
