Coupet injury blow

The custodian had to be withdrawn after just 16 minutes of Lyon's 1-0 UEFA Champions League win over Real Sociedad after a hefty challenge from Igor Gabilondo.

The player is to undergo scans on the injury on Wednesday where he will learn whether his season is over.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas was pessimistic: "Coupet is suffering from a fracture of the right wrist.

"We appreciate our qualification (to the Champions League quarter finals), but Gregory's injury makes us really sad. It is very difficult."

The injury could also wreck Coupet's chances of making the French national squad heading for Portugal in the summer to defend their European crown.

Remi Vercourte, who replaced the stricken Coupet, expressed his concern for his fellow shot-stopper: "Of course I am delighted with the qualification and to have participated.

"But my joy is spoiled by the fact a friend has been injured.

"I must admit I am eager to know exactly how bad Gregory's injury is. But it is up to me to play now and I just have to do my best for the club."