Cannes it be done?

[justlikewatching brazil]

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AS Cannes had a reputation of producing some of the finest young French footballers around. The likes of Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira, Johan Micoud and most recently Gael Clichy, all plied their trade with this famous club. However, the club has been in turmoil for the last decade or so. Not since the 97/98 season have Cannes been in the top flight and they now sit in the third tier of French football. The downward spiral has been constant at the football club, however, I intend on changing that.

June 30th the date, a new man in charge at Stade Pierre de Coubertin, Chris Whitehead, a 34 year old Englishman, born in Edgware was handed the task of taking this great club back to the top tier of French football.
Chairman Ziad Fakhri had this to say on the club's website about the appointment, 'Chris may lack experience at a high level, however, during the interview process he was the one who stood out to us the most. His enthusiasm, his ambition and his knowledge and understanding of the game were all key factors in Chris getting the job. We felt that Chris's qualities are what we are looking for to take us forward. This club needs a transformation and we plan on working together to achieve our goal of returning to the top flight.'

Whitehead had this to say also on the club website, 'I'm delighted to be able to take over the reigns at this fantastic football club. I can't thank the chairman enough for giving me this opportunity. I may lack experience and be from another country of a different syle and that could be a concern for some supporters here, however, i urge them to give me their backing, it's results on the pitch that matter ultimately and i believe myself and the squad can deliver. I'm relishing this challenge.'



Updates will follow, i'd appreciate any comments, positive or negative as i hope to make this story as good as possible, thanks.
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[justlikewatching brazil]

1st July 2009
My first day of training had arrived. A chance to have a look at the squad i inherited, i was looking forward to meeting the players as well as the backroom staff. A meeting was arranged for 10.00am that morning where i would introduce myself to the squad and set my expectations, also listening to what they had to say in return.

Everyone arrived in the back room of the canteen. I'd already met with the staff around 30 minutes beforehand, assistant managers Phillipe Cuervo and Gilbert Angelotti were on hand for the meeting, why the club has two assistants i don't know.

I sat the players down and put my thoughts across, my french shining through. The message was loud and clear, promotion is the aim, nothing but 100% commitment would be tolerated and if you aren't on board then the door is there. Nods of the head and that look in their eye, the players seemed to have responded in a positive manner, ready for the task ahead, now to get out there.

First session was out the way and i had got an early impression of each member of the squad. I was thrilled with what i saw and with no problems on the horizon, all was well, for now...​

 

[fuelledbypassion]

nice start and excellent team choice. Should be something different so i'll follow. good luck

 

[Xtormrage]

Superb team choice. I will follow.

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks very much guys, all support is really appreciated

4th July 2009
After a few days of training i'd started to see who stood out and who wasn't up to scratch in the squad. I picked out the strongest members of the squad to talk about.

Jeremy Gavanon- 25 year old goalkeeper. A former France U-21 player, he seems a very solid, reliable goalkeeper for this level and could prove key in defensive stability this year.

Steven Paulle- 23 year old centre back. A player who has spent his whole career so far at Cannes and seems to have the club at heart, good in the air and has looked impressive so far.

Abdellah Kharbouchi- 28 year old attacking midfielder. Predominantly plays down the right side of midfield, has been capped by Morocco and looks a tricky player.

Ted Lavie- 23 year old centre midfielder. Ted is currently injured with a damaged knee cap,likely to return in a couple of months. Having been at Bordeaux since a young age and loaned out most recently as last season, he joined the club just before i arrived and the reports are he is one to watch. Hopefully he overcomes this injury.

Jan Koller- 36 year old striker. A household name in world football, the giant striker is going to be key to our promotion ambition. With his experience and ability, expect plenty of goals from the big man at this level.

I sat down with the chairman that afternoon and we discussed possible ins and outs at the club, that was when he informed me of the news, not what i was hoping for......​

 

[Poppa_ChesterCityFC]

Nice stroywriting, but hopefully you will add more detail into future updates.
Also a bit worried that its been a week between your introduction and first update, so hopefully updates will be more frequent.
Will be following to see how you do

 

[Trophy_Whorder]

nice start hope you do very well i try an d follow

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks pokerjoker and chestercity, just so you know i didnt post for a week due to laptop trouble, not due to lack of commitment! Glad you're following.

5th July 2009-Koller conundrum
The chairman had broken it to me yesterday that one of our prize assets wanted to leave. Jan Koller. Such a key figure wanting out was not what i'd hoped for. I asked the chairman how he knew and why wouldn't Jan come to me and tell me?
'Jan felt that with your lack of experience, someone of his status coming and telling you something so big would've been too much for you to take in, so he came to myself and the board and revealed his wish to return home to finish his career.'
Cheeky ******. How dare he dismiss me like that? I am his manager. At this point i was absolutely seething. However, i knew just how important Jan is to our chances, i wasn't going to jeopardise him staying at the club because of my feelings towards him.
Off i went, my first big task in charge of the club was staring me in the face, how on earth could i convince Koller?


7th July 2009- Turning heads?
I'd given it a day or so, didn't want to go storming up to Jan and vent my frustration. Training was just finishing up, i rounded the players up and said well done, they were free to leave, apart from Jan Koller. The rest of the boys were ooohing and aaaahing. Jan didn't seem to see the funny side.
'Jan, just wanted to have a quick word. I spoke to the chairman a couple of days ago and he informed me that you've asked to leave. Is this correct?'
'Yes, i feel this football club hasn't got the ingredients to progress and i feel you have yet to show me why you're the man to take us forward.'

Well this was a shock to the system, just a week into training and our main frontman isn't convinced by me. I carried on this conversation with Jan as we walked back from the pitches to the canteen.
' Jan, it's been one week since i took over, how you can have formed an accurate opinion of me is beyond me. I understand you're a bigger name than we're used to having here but you can't go around thinking you make the rules.'
Jan looked stunned.
' I am telling you here and now Jan, you are a key factor in our promotion push and i want to keep you at the football club. Give me some time to convince you and if you still feel the same way, you can go, cos i for one am not gonna have players disrupting our aim.'

'Gaffer, this talk. This talk has shown something i didn't think you had in you. Some fight, some bottle. My respect for you has just gone up a notch. I'll think about it.'
Had i honestly swayed the big man with that talk? I thought i had all the characteristics to be a success here but after hearing the chairman say Jan didn't think i could take it, doubt crept in. All doubt now was out of my system, i'd turned Jan's head and maybe, just maybe he would be staying put.

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8th July- First Friendly and first departure
Today saw my Cannes side compete in our first friendly of pre season. A testing away tie against Austrian side Grazer AK. The game allowed me to have a first chance to look at the side against strong opposition. Games in training aren't quite like the real thing.

We started off brightly, the two veterans up front in Koller and Robert Malm, a 36 year old Togolese striker were causing havoc in the Austrians defence. At the back, we looked fairly solid Flavien Belson, usually a central midfielder partnered Steven Paulle at the back, headers were being won by both and Grazer were struggling to get in behind. In midfield, we slicked the ball around nicely, Albert Milambo was bossing things and feeding Koller and Malm into feet. All signs were good. However temperatures were high in Graz, the sun was sweltering, players were tiring towards the end of the first half, and it cost us.

Robert Malm

Just a minute before half time, a long ball into the box and a slight lapse in concentration from left back Sebastian Gimenez saw Grazer striker Roland Kollmann swoop to head home from 8 yards out. We went in fairly pleased with the display but disappointed to concede.

The second half saw many changes made and it was more of a fitness exercise than anything. Neither side threatened and the temperatue continued to rise. The final whistle blew and a 1-0 defeat to kick off our pre season campaign. Disappointing result but the players worked hard and the performance was positive. We got back on the bus to head back to the hotel we were staying at, about a 20 minute drive. Just enough time to ring the chairman who i had a missed call from. Wonder what that could be about?

'Chris, it's Ziad. Just to inform you today we received a bid from Caen for Algassimou Balde. It's a relatively small sum, just £9k, is he in your plans or not?'
Balde was a right hand sided midfielder who had struggled to make an impact in training and i was content with my options down the right. 'Take it Ziad, a good deal for both parties.' And there it was, my first action in the transfer market dealt with. Balde out. But who would be coming in? That is the real question on mine and all Cannes fans minds.


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[Jay Pricey]

Great update, showing the conversation between yourself and Koller, well worked and nicely put!

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks sinisterprice^^)

Business picks up
Our next pre season test was against Oberhausen, a German second division outfit who'd be a tough test for us again. We welcomed them to our home ground, it was a pretty poor attendance. Just over 700 people turned up and they weren't to be pleased with what they saw. It was a very sluggish start from us and within 15 minutes we found ourselves 2-0 down. Their striker Mike Terranova was proving terrifying. We looked a shambles, all over the place, a really poor start to the game and as it continued there looked like being no improvement.

In the 36th minute we found ourselves 3-0 down, another goal to complete a hat trick for Terranova. How i wish we had someone with the spark this guy had. I got the players in the dressing room at half time and though it was just a pre season encounter, i hammered them, this wasn't good enough at all. 9 changes were made at half time and the substitutions lifted us. Just before the hour mark we pulled one back. A combination of two substitutes, Kevin Pariente, a left sided midfielder whipped a beautiful cross in, head height for veteran French striker, Cyril Arbaud to nod home. A good finish and a potential route back into the match.

Unfortunately, there was no route back. It finished 3-1 and i could take away some postitives. The second half in particular, some young players came on and did well. Particularly, Charles Odhiambo, a central defender, just 15 years of age. Could he be the next in the long list of players Cannes have brought through? Too early to tell but he performed admirably today. However, there were negatives and tomorrow i needed to sit down with the chairman and discuss transfer targets, because the squad needs improving, quickly.

The next day i awoke to a chilly morning and an early start. I'd requested a meeting with the chairman to discuss budgets and potential transfer targets. I brought both my assistant managers along to get their opinions also. There were definite areas we needed strengthening in after watching our first two pre season games. But how would the chairman and my right hand men see it?

Ziad Fakhri walked into the room, it was his office the metting would be held in. A small, cosy environment, perfect for this sort of thing.
'Ahhh Chris, Phillipe, Gilbert, good to see you all. So lets begin.'
I started proceedings. 'Ziad, the main area of concern for me personally is the left back position. We have Sebastian Gimenez, however, i'm not entirely convinced by him, plus we need two options there anyway.'
'Agreed', said Phillipe quietly.
'So this begs the question, how much money do we have to spend?' I had to find out early on to rule out possible options and rule in others.

'Chris, i'm a man who understands to progress we need to spend. We want to be in Ligue 1 as soon as possible and i realise without spending it will take a lot longer, so i'm willing to give you a fair amount for a club in our position. How's £350 thousand sound?'
Sounds excellent i said. I then brought up the first port of call, the left back slot. I had two or three players in mind, only one would join but i put their names forward and the chairman asked how much they were likely to cost, who offered us the most in terms of what we were looking for and we agreed on our main target. Pierre Vignaud, a 26 year old left back, playing in the same league as us with FC Rouen. Our first offer would be £45k. Lets see if they bite. It would be a real bargain. Vignaud a former Auxerre youngster and with experience at this level would come in and challenge instantly for the left back slot.

Next on the agenda, a young striker. Our strikeforce looks good, however almost all of them are in their 30s. Jan Koller, 36. Robert Malm, 36. Cyril Arbaud, 31. Rudy Gestede, just 20, but is only on loan from Metz. Finally, Stepehn Vincent, 23. Both Pierre and Gilbert agreed, while the chairman was convinced we needed a young prospect to come in for the years to come. With no firm ideas in mind, Ziad rang our network of scouts and asked them to get back to him with a list of young, promising strikers. Hopefully, good news would be on its way.

Central midfield and central defence were two more areas we felt needed an extra addition.
Without hesitation, Gilbert spoke, 'Mourad Badra. A top young talent at FC Rouen. Central midfielder, athletic, strong, will prove a real acquistion. Go out and get him.'

Mourad Badra

I trust both Gilbert and Pierre, so that was set, our top target in midfield would be Mourad Badra, 21, FC Rouen, fingers crossed. Now to the defence.
' Ziad, i really liked a young defender back in England, he plays in the lower leagues there, whether he'd come here is a different matter. Craig Dawson. I want us to enquire about him, see if the price is reasonable and if it is, he's our man.'

Craig Dawson

And almost instantly, Ziad picked up his phone and got on the hunt. With these additions i'd be thrilled, however, i know it won't be easy. Would we be priced out of moves for these players? Would they want to join AS Cannes? And will our scouts find that missing piece in the frontman jigsaw? It'd be a tense few days that's for sure.

 

[fuelledbypassion]

Nice update. Good luck in your persuit of those players, sounds like you need them!

 

[The Shots]

They are in Div.3 now?!?

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks fuelledbypassion, glad you're following and yes division 3 now, bit of a fall from grace! Hoping to change that. Should get another update in later this evening.

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14th July- First taste of Ligue 1
Our next pre season match was upon us and we welcomed to Stade Pierre de Coubertin FC Lorient, a top team in France and a side whom i feel can surprise a few this season. Before the match, one of our top transfer targets had flown in to discuss terms. Pierre Viganud was welcomed by myself and the chairman and after the game we'd look to sort out the contract. Pierre watched the game alongside Ziad Fakhri and i was hoping we showed him what we're made of.

Pierre Vignaud

Things were starting to gel amongst the side. In training we were looking much sharper, much stronger, much fitter which is always a boost and after two disappointing results so far in pre season, today we were hoping for a positive outcome. Though we knew this was the most difficult game so far.

The game went very well and we came away with a 1-1 draw, a hugely respectable result against a very talented Lorient side. Kevin Gameiro was the star of the show for them, scoring the opening goal on the half hour mark. However, we responded very well and played our best football to date. We were a threat down both flanks with dangerous balls being played into Koller and Malm, our starting front two. We had to wait until the 90th minute to get an equaliser however and it was a superb 25 yard strike from right winger Alexandre Boulanger, just 14 years of age!!! A right midfielder who has impressed our youth team manager along with Charles Odhiambo who i mentioned in an earlier update. The fututre is seemingly bright with these two boys and others also developing in the Cannes youth ranks.

Attention now turned to Pierre Viganud and settling his transfer to the club. All should be smooth sailing. One matter that wasn't so smooth was Jan Koller's future. After the game Jan came up to me in the club lounge and asked if he could have a word in private. I think all was about to become clear.

15th July- Decision made
After the game yesterday, Jan Koller approached me, he wanted a quiet word in private. A couple of weeks previous Jan had asked to leave, however i'd convinced him to at least think about reconsidering. Had i convinced him?

We took a seat and spoke briefly about the game just played. Jan said he was impressed with the way we went about the game and how we managed to go toe to toe with a side from the top division. I got straight to the point and asked Jan if he'd made his mind up. Jan replied with a firm 'yes'. Now i was anxious, tense, the room suddenly became even smaller, Jan's 6'7 inch frame probably didn't help with that.
'I have decided that i am going to remain at the club Chris.' Yes!! Excellent news i thought, a huge sigh of relief as i thanked Jan for reconsidering as he went on to explain why. 'You have convinced me you can manage this football club and that we can achieve promotion this year. Also, as seen today, we have some excellent young players coming through the ranks and i want to help guide some of them and see them enter the first team, i am once again excited about the future, for me and this club'.

Today was a day off for the squad, a day off for myself. Much deserved for both i feel. With the news last night about Jan, i slept like a baby. Waking this morning i reflected on my first few weeks in the job and realised though, this wasn't going to be the only challenge i faced in the coming months, the coming weeks, the coming days even. Did that phase me at all? Not a chance, these next few months are going to be a major part in my development as a football manager and oh how i was relishing it.

 

[burkeyoa]

Looks good mate. You have a follower

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks burkeyoa^^)

18th July- Scout's corner
Today was our next pre season encounter. We faced Pau FC, who are a league below us in France. This is a game i really expect us to get a result in as well as performance. The squad seemed confident now. With the news of Jan Koller remaining at the club, there seemed to be a lift around the training ground.

The morning of the game, Ziad Fakhri phoned me. He was ringing to announce that the signing of Pierre Viganud had been completed and he was available for today's game. Fantastic news. Ziad also told me that our scouting team had come back with a possible striking option. I was intrigued. Franck Kanga was the name put forward. A Cameroonian 17 year old striker, released by Monaco in the summer. I asked Ziad if he could pass me the scout's number. He did so. I needed to find out all about Franck's strengths, weaknesses and what he'd bring to our squad but i knew he had pedigree. You don't play for Monaco if you don't have ability. He was certainly an option.

The final bit of news Ziad had for me, was that our first bid for midfield man Mourad Badra had been turned down. This was a setback as we thought an offer of £85k would turn Rouen's heads. Clearly not. We'd already signed Viganud from them, they didn't want to lose another of their top players to their rivals. 'Go back in again Ziad,' I urged. I told Ziad that we weren't going to spend much more money, so we may as well go for it. Badra was our top target. £150k Ziad told me we'd table. Surely that was an offer they couldn't refuse.

This afternoon's game was now on the agenda. With Viganud in, Badra surely on the way too and the possibility of a striker coming on board, i was extremely excited about not just the game today but about the 5th of August when the season will finally get underway. I and the squad couldn't wait.

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20th July- Franck discussion
2 days passed from our pre season game with Pau FC. In what can only be described as an embarassing display and result, we lost 2-0 to a side a league below us. It was an awful performance but it is only pre season, best to blow the cobwebs out now. I certainly had words with the squad though as we continue to build towards the opening day.

In the past 48 hours i'd been in talks with my scouts over the possibility of signing Franck Kanga, a 17 year old Cameroonian striker. Kanga, i was told, was strong, quick, powerful and had an eye for goal. I asked them if he was capable of playing at this level insantly due to his age and inexperience. They assured me that he'd need a little bit of time to adjust but would be ready to play a role this season. I watched several DVDs of Kanga from youth team games for Monaco and i like what i saw. We were going to make an offer. A small gamble but it could turn out to be a superb acquistion.

Franck arrived later that day for talks. We shook hands and i told Franck what i thought about him and that i'd like him to be a part of our plans for this season and the future. Franck seemed to like what he saw.
'I know the history of players who've played here and i know that this club will challenge for promotion this year. I would be thrilled to join your club and i look forward to working with you.'
Now that was what i liked to hear. Franck underwent a medical that day and in a rapid progression compared to the signing of Pierre Vignaud, Kanga's transfer was complete that day and we would look forward to seeing him for training tomorrow.

With Kanga and Vignaud in, two areas were left to strengthen. Central midfield and central defence. Our two targets were identified some time ago. Mourad Badra was looking realistic. Badra was coming in for talks after FC Rouen accepted a £150k offer. I was excited about the prospect. Craig Dawson on the other hand wasn't looking likely. The rumours had gone over to England and Dawson had instantly dismissed them saying he'd only consider a move abroad if it were to a team in the top flight. We'd had one bid turned down and decided to switch our attentions closer to home.

 

[fuelledbypassion]

nice updates mate. You really should be beating teams a league below you though if you plan to challenge for promotion. Hopefully Franck can turn your fortunes around. Good luck!

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

I'm sure our fortunes are going to turn around on the pitch! Thanks for your support mate.

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22nd July- All smiles on the pitch, but off it...
Today saw us score our first victory of pre season, defeating French non league FC Sete' 34 4-1. Goals from Jan Koller, Rudy Gestede and a double from midfielder Albert Milambo saw us cruise to victory with one of our better displays this pre season campaign. We slicked the ball about nicely early on, however we lost our rhythm towards the end of the first half. The second half saw a similar pattern. We began like lightning, with Milambo and Flavien Belson in the middle of midfield running the show, but the last 20 minutes or so, we took our foot off the gas understandably. I was delighted with the victory though and the performance to boot.

Milambo

I got on the coach with the players after the game, the mood was buoyant, ready for the trip home when i received a phone call about 20 minutes into the journey. It was my mum Anne. She said there was an emergency back home and that my dad had been rushed to hospital. She urged me to get the first flight home. Mum isn't one to overexaggerate, this was serious. My heart was racing, i didn't know what to do. I was in a real panic. Would the chairman allow me home? Would i be able to get a flight home? How long would i be in England? And most importantly would my dad be alright?

I told Phillipe and Gilbert my assistants. They quickly rang the chairman. I was in no state to even pick up the phone. The players were unaware what was going on. Gilbert told me the chairman had booked me a flight out immediately and that the coach would take a detour to my house to collect my belongings and to take me to the airport. I breathed a little easier. I couldn't believe it, but for the time being AS Cannes would have to do without their manager.
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1st August- The return
For ten days AS Cannes had to do without their manager. I was back home in England attending to my dad who was ill in hospital. Supporting my mum and being there by my dad's side were all that mattered. I'd had more than a few sleepless nights. However, i knew that i had a job to do back in France. The time was right to return. My dad's condition had improved and both he and my mum encouraged me to return to work.

I'd been in regular contact with my assistants back at Cannes, Phillipe Cuervo and Gilbert Angelotti. They reported everyday how training had gone, if there were any concerns and also transfer activity. I was grateful to both men as they also shared concern for my father.

The main story while i was gone was a training ground bust up. Brilliant. All that i hoped of hearing about while i'm gone. This was not the news i wanted to hear, one day before i arrived back, tempers had flared on the training ground and there was a fall out between two of our key players. Steven Paulle and Jeremy Gavanon, our main central defender and number one goalkeeper. The media had got hold of the story and were reporting that Gavanon was threatening to walk out on the club. This was news to my ears!! I had to get this matter sorted out immediately.

Gavanon and Paulle

I returned with this issue the main point on my agenda. I was welcomed back by the squad and took training that morning. All seemed well. Mourad Badra had completed his £150k signing from FC Rouen while i was gone and we had a brief word in private. I was impressed with his attitude and he looked a talented player. Training was all done and dusted, now just four days away from the opening day of the season. Things were taking shape nicely, but the Paulle-Gavanon matter needed to be resolved.

I called both men into my office after the session. The tension was clear, neither man could look at the other. I asked Steven first what exactly happened.
'Jeremy was constantly on my back in training boss. I could do nothing right. I'd make a tackle, he'd tell me i should have stayed on my feet. I won headers, he told me they should have gone further away from goal. I dropped deeper, he told me to push higher forward. I snapped. I told Jeremy where to stick it and did my own thing. Jeremy came out of his goal to confront me. What was i supposed to do? Walk away? No, i stood my ground and there was a few exchanges. Nothing major, just a small thing.'

'Well that's not what the media are saying!! Two professional players, two of our most important players, behaving like this isn't acceptable!! I expect the highest standard of conduct, whether it be on or off the pitch from every single member of this squad, for all to see or behind closed doors. This isn't acceptable. I understand team mates aren't always gonna get along, but to react is not how you go about it.'

I was furious. Unrest in the camp is not what we need. We are a club who want to progress and incidents like these, though they seem minor can really be a hindrance. With only four days to go until the opening day, we needed this sorted. I got Jeremy's word on the story, he apologised and said that Steven's story was exactly what happened but that he was just trying to get the best out his defenders as any goalkeeper would. He then denied all rumours he wanted out, saying he was here for the long haul. I fined both men a weeks wages, they shook hands and walked out. Issue resolved. I feared this would hamper our preparations for the start of the season. The media would now be on us in an instant. The spotlight is on us and we need to stand up and be counted.
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AS Cannes v US Luzenac- French National
We began our promotion push today with a home game against Union Sportive Luzenac, a side who the media are tipping to struggle. We arrived at the ground, at 1.30pm ready for a 3.00pm kick off. The squad seemed calm, ready for our first test. The players knew the starting eleven. They were well aware of their jobs and what was required to get off to a flier. The players went out for a warm up at 2.15. I watched on with intent. They seemed on their game. I liked what i was seeing. The fans were beginning to turn up in numbers, they were just as ready for this as i and the players were. That pre match atmosphere was in full effect. Songs were beginning to be sung, drums were being banged, smiles were on faces. Let's hope come the end of the game, those smiles were still on people's faces.

AS Cannes starting line up: Gavnon(GK), Leoni(DR), Vignaud(DL), Paulle(DC), Di Bartolomeo(DC), Kharbouchi(MR), Pariente(ML), Milambo(MC), Badra(MC), Koller(FC), Malm(FC).

I was confident, the players were confident and from the very first whistle that confidence was clear for all to see. Kharbouchi and Pariente down the flanks were looking excellent. We needed to get these boys the ball more often. Our first chance came within the first 10 minutes. Kharbouchi whipping in a delightful cross for Robert Malm to head a matter of inches past the post. Put it in!!! That was all that went through my head. The next 10-15 minutes went by without much in the way of goalmouth action, however we were completely on top. Albert Milambo and Mourad Badra were dominating the middle of midfield and our back four had yet to be tested. Our next real chance came with 5 minutes of the half remaining, a long ball into the box from Pierre Vignaud saw Jan Koller rise highest to nod down for Mourad Badra who hit a thunderous strike only to see the Luzenac goalkeeper make a fine stop. The half time whistle came and we had nothing to show for our dominance. Surely it wasn't going to be one of those days.

Patience was the key word at half time. I had to remind the players that there was another 45 to go and that our quality would see us through, whether it be 1-0 or 5-0, all that matters is three points. We came out for the second half and started slowly. Luzenac must have had a kick up the backside at half time as they came out all guns blazing and began to threaten Jeremy Gavanon and our back four. Just after the hour mark however, we got the breakthrough we deserved. Albert Milambo played a fabulous ball through to Jan Koller whose strike was well saved by the Luzenac goalkeeper, the rebound though fell to Robert Malm who opened his and our account for the season.

Within three minutes it was 2-0. Kharbouchi down the right beat his man and crossed wonderfully for Jan Koller to head home convincingly. I got the impression that Jan would do this on more than one occasion this season. The next 25 minutes were plain sailing. We stepped off the gas a little bit but remained in control. The final whistle went and the early signs were promising. The fans went home happy and the atmosphere in the dressing room afterwards was excellent. Promotion on this performance was more than possible.​

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The Guegnon gang

The rest of the month was a rollercoaster ride for myself and the squad. Games came thick and fast while our pursuit for a central defender went in several different directions. The day after the Luzenac game was a day off for the side. A well earned day off after an impressive opening day performance. The boys knew they needed to be resting at home though, as in just 4 days time, we had a tough test away from home at FC Guegnon.

FC Guegnon v AS Cannes- French National
Guegnon were going to be a much sterner test than Luzenac. They're a side who could possibly challenge for promotion this season and should at least be in and around. Their main threat we picked out would be Robin Previtali, a 22 year old French striker who is quick and has an eye for goal. We would need to watch him carefully. Salim Kerkar, a left sided midfielder could also cause problems with his pace. Romauld Marie came in at right back for Stephane Leoni due to him being quicker. Albert Milambo moved to he left of midfield due to Kevin Pariente having a slight knock. Also, Mourad Badra was absent with a minor knock. In came Flavien Belson and Alexis Bertin.

AS Cannes starting line up: Gavanon(GK), Marie(DR), Vignaud(DL), Di Bartolomeo(DC), Paulle(DC), Kharbouchi(MR), Milambo(ML), Bertin(MC), Belson(MC), Koller(FC), Malm(FC).

The game began with Guegnon on top. Previtali and Chapuis, their two frontmen were causing havoc in our backline and had several early chances they wasted, we were on the ropes. Just after the half hour mark, Guegnon struck. A low ball across the face of goal from Kerkar saw Previtali tap home from six yards. It was poor defending and we hadn't got into the game at all. However, five minutes before half time, we struck back. Flavien Belson played a seemingly nothing ball into the area, their defence failed to clear and it fell to Jan Koller on the edge of the area who struck home. 1-1 half time.

The second half saw a much stronger display. We changed things at half time. Stephane Leoni came off the bench along with Stephen Vincent for Romauld Marie and Albert Milambo. Vincent predominantly a striker was using his pace well down the left flank and provided two quick chances for us to score, however, Robert Malm couldn't convert. In the 65th minute we did take the lead. A corner whipped in by Vincent was headed home powerfully by Vincent Di Bartolomeo. 2-1 Cannes and thats the way it stayed. A strong second half performance and a sign of intent. A huge win away from home and a masive step in the right direction.
​

 

[fuelledbypassion]

A couple of great results there to start the season. Seems like your fortunes have changed already

 

[Meerkat_Arshavin]

never seen many french lower league team stories so i'll follow might try lower french league one day
good luck with it

 

[justlikewatching brazil]

Thanks guys, much appreciated. Yes fortunes have changed, i hope!

Spotlight on
Our next game this month was an away day against AS Beauvais Oise. This would be a difficult game for us, all away games would be. Beauvais are a side who like Guegnon who we played in the previous game could well be in and around the promotion push. Our last game was very tricky and we did well to come away with three points. Another three here today would be excellent.

AS Beauvais Oise v AS Cannes- French National
Beauvais possess many threats to us. In the middle of the pitch they have an excellent midfielder, Abdoulaye Keita who is very strong and very dominant on the pitch. Up front both their strikers are a real danger. Julien Valero and Samir Bertin d'Avesnes, a former Bastia youngster would both be a handful for our defenders. For us, there was one notable absentee, Jan Koller picked up a calf strain in training and is likely to miss two to three weeks which is a blow. Robert Malm was also absent after taking a slight knock against Guegnon. Rudy Gestede and the impressive Stephen Vincent came in up front. Kevin Pariente returned to the left of midfield in place of Alexis Bertin, with Albert Milambo returning to the middle alongside Flavien Belson.

AS Cannes starting lineup: Gavanon(GK), Marie(DR), Vignaud(DL), Paulle(DC), Di Bartolomeo(DC), Kharbouchi(MR), Pariente(ML), Milambo(MC), Belson(MC), Gestede(FC), Vincent(FC).

The first half was very evenly matched with Beauvais possibly having the better of the play, however we went in a goal to the good. A handball in the area saw us awarded a 21st minute penalty which Stephen Vincent struck home. The second half was much of a muchness, with both teams pretty evenly matched. Again there was one goal in it. This time it went to Beauvais. A long ball into the area wasn't dealt with and substitute Davide N'Goma scored. 1-1 it ended but we were pleased with the outcome and seven points out of nine is a good return thus far.

My attention then turned to signing a centre back. We'd missed out on Craig Dawson which was disappointing and decided to stick to a French central defender. We had come to the conclusion, myself, Gilbert and Pierre that Boris Ponge would be the man we directed our attention to. Ponge, 24, was already on our three man shortlist for that position, but after seeing him firsthand in our 1-1 draw with Beauvais we decided to definitely go for him. He'd done more than enough to show he's capable of coming into our side. Ziad Fakhri our chairman tabled a bid that evening in the region of £85k. Beauvais gave permission for us to speak to Boris, however they asked for a slightly higher fee. £110k and we had our man. Ziad wasn't conivnced, i pleaded, almost begged Ziad to go through with this. Central defence was the one final piece in the puzzle. Ziad gave in. The bid was accepted and Boris Ponge was set to be the fourth recruit at Stade Pierre de Coubertin this campaign.

Boris Ponge

​

French newspaper L'equipe ran an interview this afternoon with myself. To get an interview with the biggest sports paper in the country was some accomplishment considering we're in the third tier. This is how they billed the interview.

Today is the 8th of August and after just over a month in charge of AS Cannes, we have a feature with their bright English manager Chris Whitehead who has seen his side start the season in good from taking 7 points from 9. We ask Chris just what life in Cannes is like, how he's adjusted to our culture and just what his plans are for the future.

L'equipe: Chris, first thing is first. The recent clash away at AS Beauvais Oise. Disappointed with only taking a point from that game?

Chris: Well, there's always disappointment when you don't take three points but we were pleased with the result as Beauvais are going to be a strong side this year. To go there and come away with something will be difficult for a lot of teams this year but we've managed it.

L'equipe: How have you found life in France so far? Completely different to England or have you managed to cope well?

Chris: I found it relatively difficult at first but within a few days you're up and running. The line of work I’m in helps also. Coming in everyday with the lads, having a good atmosphere around the place really helps. Some of the players speak English and i can speak French so it hasn't been all that difficult really.

L'equipe: What about the squad itself then? What were your first thoughts when you saw them in action and did you think you could make your mark immediately this season?

Chris: Oh most definitely, there was a core of talented players in place and we felt with two or three more bodies we'd be there or thereabouts. We've signed four players and let one go. Our business is now done and dusted and i'm more than confident we can achieve our aim this season, which of course is to get promoted.

L'equipe: On those transfers, how do you expect the new arrivals to settle in?

Chris: Well so far so good. Pierre Vignaud has played all three of our opening games and has looked very assured. Mourad Badra has only managed one appearance due to injury but his return is looking imminent. Franck Kanga we expect to take a bit of time before he is really involved. He's only young and with strikers of Jan Koller's quality it's always going to be difficult. Lastly, Boris Ponge's move from Beauvais has been completed now and we hope he can make an instant impact.

L'equipe: The rumoured fallout between Jeremy Gavanon and Steven Paulle. What exactly happened and what's the situation between the two?

Chris: The press blew it all out of proportion. Jeremy and Steven had words yes. It happens at any football club. The report was extremely exaggerated and the two are by no means the best of friends but are more than capable of getting along. Just the other day they were playing table tennis together. It's no big deal at all. As far as Jeremy leaving goes, which one paper reported, i think you may know who it was. That's nonsense. Jeremy is a Cannes player and will be for the foreseeable future.

L'equipe: You visited home recently due to a family issue. How is that looking now Chris?

Chris: It's a private matter and i don't want to delve into detail but all is looking ok now, thank you.

L'equipe: Lastly Chris, where do you see your Cannes side in the next few years?

Chris: Our aim is firstly, get out of this league and into Ligue 2. The overall ambition is to return to Ligue 1. We know it's going to be difficult. We know it may take time but this football club belongs in the top flight and i feel i can take them there with the support of the player, fans, staff and chairman.

L'equipe: Thanks very much for your time.

Chris: My pleasure, thank you.