Lyon's Houllier more interested in titles than records

Olympique Lyon, who entertain Lille today in their last match of 2005, can finish the year without a league defeat for the second time in their history.

The four-times French champions, chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive title, achieved the feat last year, becoming the fourth French club to do so after St Etienne, Paris St Germain and Nantes.

Lyon coach Gerard Houllier, however, insists he is more interested in winning titles than staying ubeaten. "I'm not obsessed with not losing," said the former Liverpool manager.

"Winning trophies is the only thing I care about. An unbeaten run is good for your confidence but that's about it."

Lyon, whose only defeat this season came on penalties to Nantes in a French League Cup tie in October, are 12 points clear of second-placed Auxerre. The team from Burgundy entertain lowly Nancy tomorrow while third-placed Girondins Bordeaux will be at home to Nantes.

"It would be nice to stay 12 points ahead," said Lyon's Brazilian midfielder Juninho. "The last two years we finished off with home draws (with PSG and Marseille). We want to do better this time."

Lyon goalkeeper Gregory Coupet, who plays his 300th league match today, warned that Lille would be tough opponents.

"They are one of the toughest teams to play," Coupet said of last season's runners-up, lying eighth, 17 points off the pace.

"We mustn't think too much about the holidays. We've still got some work to do".

Lille midfielder Mathieu Bodmer said he would not mind seeing the notherners inflict Lyon's first league defeat of the season.

"Why not?," he asked. "They're a strong side but we've got nothing to lose. Besides, we need points to stay in the race for places in Europe. A good result in Lyon would help."