Toulouse vs Bastia preview - Casanova tries to cool passions

Toulouse coach Alain Casanova has urged his side not to panic as they bid to breathe new life into their ailing season at home to Bastia on Saturday.

Casanova's men have slumped to 15th place in the Ligue 1 table after taking just one point from their last five games, which include last week's 3-0 thrashing at Lyon.

He told France Bleu: "We all want to see the club do well and we want to see the team become more focused and determined.

"People might think we don't care, but we want to resolve the difficulties as soon as possible. It is about seeking solutions and turning the momentum in the other direction."

Toulouse are without the suspended Francois Moubandje but Casanova confirmed new recruit Jean Armel Kana-Biyick will be part of his squad for the first time.

In contrast, opponents Bastia go into the game in buoyant mood after going three league games unbeaten as well as advancing in both domestic cups.

Ghislain Printant's men are still on a high after last week's shock 4-2 win over Paris St Germain but the Corsicans' boss warned the game against Toulouse would offer tougher challenges.

"It will be more difficult for us than it was against PSG, because we are up against a team who did not expect to be where they are now, and they have so much talent," Printant told La Depeche.

Bastia are without the injured Floyd Ayite plus Mathieu Peybernes and Ryad Boudebouz, both of whom have been suffering from a virus.