Gourcuff reveals contract refusal

Lyon midfielder Yoann Gourcuff insists he was right to turn down a new contract with the Ligue 1 club, claiming they do not have faith in him.

Gourcuff, who has started just seven Ligue 1 matches this season, made a big-money switch to Lyon from Bordeaux in 2010.

Lyon paid €22million for his services but have been frustrated ever since, with a string of injuries interrupting his time at the club.

The 27-year-old has not played for France since June and feels the time is right to move on – claiming he is left on the bench too often by manager Remi Garde.

Speaking about his refusal to sign a new deal, Gourcuff told L’Equipe: “I will let my lawyer handle it.

“An extension must be a sign of confidence from both parties, with everyone being satisfied.

“That fact that I’ve been injured regularly or often on the bench… I don’t think it’s relevant. I have not felt huge confidence from the club at times.

“Sometimes I find myself on the bench, like recently against Toulouse and Bastia. These are small signs. It does not hurt me but I take note.”

Lyon sit 10th in the Ligue 1 table, with just six wins from their first 18 matches of the season.