Malian star Traore eager to impress Rennes fans

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Thursday Aug 10, 2017. 12:00

Malian defender Hamari Traore has discussed life at Rennes ahead of his second French Ligue 1 match with the club.

The 25-year-old right-back secured a move to Rennes from French Ligue 2 outfit Reims during the current Transfer Window.

Traore made his official debut for Rennes as they drew 1-1 with Troyes in their first 2017/18 Ligue 1 match at the Stade de I'Aube last week Saturday.

The Red and Blacks will now host French giants Olympique Lyonnais at the Roazhon Park in the city of Rennes on Friday.

"I am looking forward to the game. I really looking forward to playing in front of the Rennes public," Traore told the club's official website.

"I have played in Rennes as a player for Reims. Now I'm no longer part of the opposition.

Lyon are sitting at the top of the Ligue 1 standings having thumped Strasbourg in their first league match at home last week Saturday.

"I defend the colours of the club. I hope that the fans will always be behind us, whatever the scenario. We too will fight whoever it is," he continued.

"Lyon is a big club in the championship (Ligue 1) - they compete for the title. They are at the top of the table.

"They have recruited good players this summer, but we are not afraid of anyone," he added.

"We have our own qualities and we will play in front of our supporters. It's up to us to start well in a big game and win."

Traore made 31 appearances in the Ligue 2 for Reims last season and he netted two goals in the process.