Before meeting the team for the first time tomorrow on the first day of the preparatory camp in Crans-Montana, Didier Tholot was presented to the press late on Friday afternoon alongside Barthélémy Constantin. It was an opportunity for him to talk about his expectations for the new season, but also to recall a few fond memories. True to form, the French coach often referred to work.
Here are the key points from the press conference:
Didier Tholot, on his return:
"It wasn't planned when I left my job at Pau. I'd had opportunities to come back two or three times recently, but I didn't feel it was the right time. I was working on a project back home, in my region. As soon as I was free, the first contacts were made and I felt the desire to come back to complete this project. I know the values and those that I can instil in a group. I'm taking a risk by coming back because the fans have a good image of me. Now, as always, we'll have to work hard.
Barthélémy Constantin on Didier Tholot's return:
"Didier Tholot is the cornerstone of our project. He knows the club, the region and the values that drive us. He's the ideal person for this project and for bringing pleasure back to the fans. There is a desire to build with the young people of our region. A number of them will get their chance in the camp starting tomorrow in Montana.
Didier Tholot, on his observations from last season:
"My assessment of last season is simple. And I don't want to go into too much detail because there were people in place who certainly gave their best. I have two important points. The first is that with 79 goals conceded, it's impossible to win games. And the second is that if you win two games in front of your fans, you can't get away with it. In the fight for survival, home games are crucial.
Didier Tholot on the club's situation:
"I'm aware of the situation. I know we're going down. I accept these conditions if I stand before you today. We're going to do everything we can to succeed and rebuild. We're not setting ourselves any targets at the moment. Six or seven youngsters will be with us at a camp in Crans-Montana from tomorrow. They'll have the chance to show what they're made of. This camp will give me a clearer picture. I'll be keeping a close eye on the players' desire and determination. Those are very important factors for me.
Didier Tholot, on the squad:
"Several players have left. Now we have to clear the heads because relegation is still in the minds of some players. I want to see players with their heads held high. They need to be aware that, with a different kind of commitment, they can bring this club back up and be seen in a completely different light in 12 months' time. There are some good players in this squad and even in the U21s.
Didier Tholot, on his time in Valais:
"The memories are indelible. When I see these landscapes again, I remember what we experienced in Europe and in the Cup. I have a special relationship with the club and this region. I'm not coming under the best conditions, that's for sure, but I'm convinced that we're going to work well. I'm really looking forward to getting started, and everything will come together very quickly.
Tomorrow FC Sion kick off their week-long preparatory camp, which runs until Saturday 1 July, the date of their first friendly match against Lausanne-Sport (6.00 pm in Crissier). Three other friendly matches are scheduled. The final dates and times will be announced later.
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