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Essien Wins French Title

Mon, 17 May 2004 Source: --

Lyon celebrate third title but lack European recognition

PARIS, May 16 (Reuters) - Michael Essien's Lyon's third consecutive Ligue 1 success has been overshadowed by the achievements of Monaco and Olympique Marseille in Europe this season.

Paul Le Guen's side effectively wrapped up the title on Saturday despite a 1-0 loss at Paris St Germain.

With one game left, Lyon have 76 points from 37 games with a goal difference of plus 35. PSG are three points adrift with a goal difference of only plus 21.

However, Lyon's title distinctly lacks the European flavour which has carried Monaco and Marseille to the Champions League and UEFA Cup finals respectively later this month.

The league winners were knocked out of the Champions League in the last eight by finalists Porto with 4-2 aggregate defeat.

While Lyon floundered in Europe, Monaco knocked out Real Madrid en route to May 26 final in Gelsenkirchen.

Marseille, who triumphed in the Champions League in 1993, will play their fourth European final in 13 years when they face Valencia on May 19 in the UEFA Cup decider.

However, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas, the man who lifted the club from second division to the top of Ligue 1, still believes his team is better than Monaco and Marseille.

"French football has been brilliant this season with Monaco and Marseille playing European cup finals. But anyway, Lyon are leading the race," said Aulas.

Aulas praised his squad's performance, adding: "I think it is harder to clinch three titles in a row nowadays than 10 or 15 years ago."

Lyon joined St Etienne and Marseille as the only French clubs to have won three top flight crowns in succession.

"We started winning under Jacques Santini and we now also have a great coach in Paul Le Guen," said Aulas.

"He might not be a media darling but I can tell you he is one of the best in Europe and he deserves respect."

Lyon will effectively celebrate their title when they host mid-table Lille next Sunday, while Paris St Germain will try to secure their direct Champions League qualifying spot when they travel to Bastia, who are still threatened by relegation.

"I'm very happy with this season's performance. We had to tinker a lot and today our work has been rewarded," said PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic.

Monaco, who trail PSG by one point, are expected to field a full strength team at Girondins Bordeaux on Friday as they attempt to leapfrog the Parisians in the table.

Fernando Morientes is the team's only worry after the striker sustained an ankle sprain against Rennes.

Club doctor Eric Buracchi said the Spaniard should, however, be fit for the Champions League final.

Source: --