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Cris hopes for Lyon end

Image: Cris: Lyon legend

Lyon skipper Cris is hoping he will be given the opportunity to see out his playing days at Stade Gerland.

Brazilian defender keen to finish his career with French giants

Lyon skipper Cris is hoping he will be given the opportunity to see out his playing days at Stade Gerland. The Brazilian centre-half has spent the last six years with the Ligue 1 giants, making over 250 appearances. He remains an integral part of the side heading forward, despite now being 33, and is Lyon's leader both on and off the field. Having enjoyed so many happy times, Cris admits he is keen to end his career in France. He remains as competitive as ever and hopes he can help Lyon re-establish their dominance in French football before he slips into retirement.

Career

"I have been at the club for six years and it is up to me to remain a key member of the defence and maintain my form," Cris said in France Football. "I hope Lyon will be my last club. I came here in 2004 and I have already won four titles and one French Cup. "I hope I can still prove my worth on the pitch. I don't want to stop my career yet." The 2010/11 campaign started badly for Lyon, with coach Claude Puel placed under considerable pressure.
Target
Cris admits the dressing room has been damaged by the disappointing opening but, with results having picked up over recent weeks, he believes the title is still up for grabs this season. He said: "In the past, we had a really good atmosphere. Nowadays, the atmosphere is good but, considering results, it is a little more difficult. "There is big pressure on the whole team. The league is long, though, and we will react. Our team can still win the title. "I know the fans are upset, but we need their support. They must stop asking for Puel's resignation. Personally, I am only aiming for the league title."