Evian Thonon Gaillard vs Stade Reims preview - Weber: We cannot afford to lose

Reims defender Anthony Weber admits "losing is not an option" as his side prepare for a huge relegation battle against Evian in Ligue 1 this weekend.

Evian currently occupy the final spot in the drop zone but are just one point behind 17th-placed Reims, meaning they would move above them with victory.

Neither side goes into the game in good form, with the home side without a win in their last five matches and Reims having suffered six defeats in their last seven.

Weber has stressed the importance of the clash for the visitors and told www.ligue1.com: "It's still in our hands; we're a point above the drop zone.

"We'll need to put in a big performance against Evian. We don't have a choice if we want to stay in Ligue 1.

"We need a win or at least a draw. Losing is not an option."

Reims coach Olivier Guegan has managed just one win in four games since taking over from Jean-Luc Vasseur in April, and with three matches remaining he desperately needs a win to ease their worries.

Following a 2-0 defeat to Guingamp last weekend, the former assistant coach told L'Equipe: "The match against Evian will be important. (I have said to the players) Do not lower your heads and be very strong in these times.

"We're ready to fight, the players are committed."

Goalkeeper Kossi Agassa hurt his groin against Guingamp but should be okay to feature, but Franck Signorino, Antoine Devaux and Brazilian Diego, who scored twice in a 3-2 win for Reims against Evian in the reverse fixture earlier this season, are all struggling.