Lyonnais - Metz preview - Cornet hoping for special feeling

Lyon's new signing Maxwel Cornet admits it would be a "special" feeling to make his debut against former club Metz on Sunday.

The 18-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Ligue 1 leaders after telling Metz he would not renew his contract, which was due to expire in the summer.

Cornet joined Les Grenats at the age of seven but fell out of favour under Albert Cartier this season and could be given the chance to prove a point when the two teams meet weekend.

"I just kept working every day at Metz, I wanted to be ready," Cornet told Lyon's official club website.

"Physically, I'm in good shape. I just don't have match fitness. Mentally, I am very determined.

"I would also like to thank Metz and it will be something special to play against them on Sunday. I just want to start playing again."

Cornet continued: "My first impressions at Lyon are very positive. I have joined a very young squad.

"I received a great welcome and immediately felt right at home. I knew that OL were following me.

"It's a huge relief to find a new club after six months on the periphery. I am very happy to be back playing again.

"I was told that other clubs were interested in me but OL's policy towards their young players was a motivating factor in my decision."

Lyon are currently top of the table, one point ahead of Marseille and four clear of Paris St Germain.

Lyon boss Hubert Fournier will be hoping his side can extend their advantage against 17th-placed Metz and admits Cornet may play a part in the contest.

"Could he be in the squad for Metz? Yes, he is available like he other players and there is no exclusion clause with Metz," Fournier said.

"He is fresh, he is enthusiastic and he has the ability to take people on.

"We have to work well to get the best out of him, and he has to assume his role within the club's project."

Lyon were dumped out of the last 32 in the Coupe de France on Tuesday after a 3-2 defeat to Nantes, ending a run of five straight victories.

They will be confident of bouncing back against Metz, however, who are two points of the bottom and without a win in nine league matches.