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Lyon facing full-back crisis

Image: Puel: Running out of options

Reigning Ligue 1 champions Lyon may be forced to strengthen their defensive options in January.

Chimbonda could be a New Year target

Reigning Ligue 1 champions Lyon may be forced to strengthen their defensive options in January. Claude Puel's side has been decimated by injuries, with Anthony Reveillere adding to the coach's mounting problems over the weekend. The France international is believed to have ruptured knee ligaments against Paris St Germain on Saturday, although the full extent of the problem is not yet known. However, he is facing a prolonged spell on the sidelines and has left Lyon desperately short on numbers at the back. Italian World Cup-winner Fabio Grosso is now the club's only recognised senior full-back, with youngsters Lamine Gassama and Thimotee Kolodzieczak called into the fold of late. Faced with such a shortage, Puel is widely tipped to delve into the transfer market once the window re-opens in the New Year. One of those reported to be on his radar is Sunderland's Pascal Chimbonda. The Frenchman has fallen out of favour at the Stadium of Light since completing a summer switch from Tottenham and is likely to welcome the opportunity of regular football, and UEFA Champions League action, back in his homeland.

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