Bourillon ready for rearguard action
Thursday, June 1, 2006
Article summary
Three games played. Nine points. No goals conceded. It is clear to see why Grégory Bourillon is in an upbeat mood as France prepare to play the Netherlands.
Article body
Three games played. Nine points. No goals conceded. It is not difficult to see why Grégory Bourillon is in upbeat mood.
Rest deserved
The Stade Rennais FC centre-back has more than played his part in France's cruise to the UEFA European Under-21 Championship semi-finals. He was commanding in the 1-0 and 3-0 defeats of Portugal and Germany respectively, both in his defensive duties and in his long-range passing, before earning a well-earned rest for the 2-0 victory against Serbia and Montenegro on Sunday that confirmed Les Bluets' status as favourites for this competition.
'Excellent game'
"We've won all our games and we are very hopeful for the semi-finals," Bourillon told uefa.com. "We are aware of our strengths, but we know the Netherlands are very good team. It will be an excellent game to watch." Talking of viewing, the French players have been doing just that and brushing up on their knowledge of their Jong Oranje rivals. "I don't really know the Dutch team well. We've watched a video and we could see how strong they are. They have a very nice team."
Many admirers
The same could be said of France, who have won many admirers for their uncompromising defending and attacking flair. The depth in the squad has allowed coach René Girard to rotate his players, but none of the team will want to miss out when they take on the Netherlands in Braga tonight. "It was good to have a small break after the Ligue 1 season ended but we are competitors and we like to play these games. We are lucky to be here because you don't have the opportunity to play in a European Championship every year, so we are giving it our all."
Club focus
When his work in Portugal is done, he will allow his focus to switch back to his club Rennes where he has, notably for a 21-year-old, been a regular for the past four seasons. The club is without a coach but Bourillon is more than content about the future. "I still have a two-year contract. I'm very happy with my club Rennes and I want to stay there. All I want from next season is to play as much as possible."
