Lille boss Rudi Garcia defends Salomon Kalou and Dimitri Payet

Lille boss Rudi Garcia has backed under-fire duo Salomon Kalou and Dimitri Payet to find form after they were subjected to boos from the club's fans.

LOSC's supporters have begun to lose patience following a disappointing first half to the season that has seen Garcia's side flop in the Champions League while they are well adrift of the top in Ligue 1.

The performances of summer signing Kalou and Payet have attracted the spotlight in recent weeks following the reaction of the fans.

During the current run of four winless games Kalou has found himself outside the first team while France winger Payet has been substituted in all three of his starts.

While Garcia admitted some concern he believes both will play key roles before now and the end of the campaign.

Speaking about Payet, he told reporters: "He made a good start against Valencia but he had no success.

"He was also effective against Sochaux at the weekend and played a part in the goal for Nolan (Roux).

"He must, however, do that more regularly."

Garcia admitted Kalou, who has made one start in the past four games, was likely to have to bide his time on the bench but retains belief in the Ivorian.

"Kalou will get better," he said.

"He is used to playing off the bench at Chelsea."

-->

-->

Source: SkySports