Sochaux hope Maiga stays

Striker realigns focus after seeing Magpies move collapse

By Patrick Haond.   Last Updated: January 9, 2012 3:07pm

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Modibo Maiga: Saw Newcastle move break down, but remains committed to Sochaux

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Sochaux chairman Alexandre Lacombe has been impressed by Modibo Maiga's attitude over recent weeks and hopes the striker will remain at the club.

The Mali international had been hoping to be a Premier League player by now, with Newcastle having spent several months chasing his signature.

They were unable to get a deal done last summer and saw a possible January switch collapse when fitness concerns were raised during Maiga's medical.

The 24-year-old striker was disappointed to see a dream switch collapse, but he has refused to get too disheartened.

Sochaux are hoping that he will now put transfer issues to the back of his mind and focus on playing a leading role in their Ligue 1 endeavours.

"In his commitment levels, I have noticed a big change," Lacombe told L'Equipe.

"We rely on him and we now have a common interest."