Govou`s Lyon vow

SIDNEY GOVOU has affirmed his intention to stay at Lyon next season despite strong interest from a string of Europe's leading clubs.

The powerful forward has caught the attention of Liverpool, Manchester United and Champions League finalists Juventus and Milan.

Though Lyon have received no firm offers for Govou, the 23-year-old's agent insists that quartet are eyeing up the £16 million-rated attacker.

But Govou has pledged his commitment to the French table-toppers, insisting he is in no rush to move abroad although he concedes his immediate future rests in Lyon's hands.

"I have always stated my wish to stay at Lyon," Govou told France Football. "I would love to achieve something great in the Champions League with this club before leaving.

"Here, I feel fine. I am playing for the greatest French club. Leaving for abroad is not yet an obsession. There is no emergency.

"However, there are offers you can't refuse. We will see in time. I am not alone in taking the decision."

Govou also revealed The Premiership is his preferred destination when he quits Lyon as he relishes the style of play on offer in England.

He added: "I would love to one day play in England. For the atmosphere in the stadiums and for the league.

"It is open football, attack-oriented. There, they don't ask a lot of tactical questions, that is what I prefer.

"I am not closed to the other leagues but it is really the one that attracts me the most."