During the meeting between RC Lens and Stade de Reims, Adrien Thomasson scored the first goal in the 23rd minute. This action was immediately followed by a celebration with Florian Sotoca, who was preparing to play his 200th match with the club.
Adrien Thomasson explained his gesture by saying that he had a special thought for Sotoca: “Yes, that’s why quite simply. I had a little thought for him because I knew it was an important day and match for him. »
The player highlighted Sotoca's importance to the club: “For me, he is a figure of this club. This is, I believe, his sixth season at the club. He perfectly represents the state of mind of the group, even of an entire club. For me, I'm very happy that he achieved it. It's not nothing, 200 matches. I hope he does 200 more with us. »
Although Thomasson understood the importance of the match for Sotoca, he clarified that his action was not premeditated. “It’s not something I planned before the match. It was rather instinctive. I also know that it's not easy to be on the bench. I have experienced these situations”he added.
Florian Sotoca took the field for his 200th match, making a valuable contribution to the team. Thomasson noted: “When he came back, he got into the mood perfectly and he gave us something. »
He also commented on the unusual situation of seeing Jonathan Gradit and Florian Sotoca start the match on the bench, despite their fitness: “This is the first time they are on the bench even though they are able-bodied. It's true that it's weird, but afterward, nothing is set in stone. »
This situation reflects the dynamics of change within the team, as Thomasson pointed out: “That’s what the coach kept telling us throughout the week. There can be quite a few changes from one match to the next. This is what keeps us efficient, because there is competition between us which is quite healthy. »
