January transfers are never easy, especially when the environment change is so drastic. Many had anticipated a nervous start to his career at Lorient and as demonstrated In his game against St Etienne, the Gabon international still has to get used to the pace and physicality of the game in France.

The midfielder, usually tidy in possession with his North African club, was wasteful throughout the game, being hassled by opposition defenders and losing many balls. As the game went on, he became increasingly frustrated which led to a first and then second yellow card.

For his first start since joining the team, Ndong lasted 67 minutes on the pitch before getting his first sending off in a game which saw his team lose to St Etienne 0-2. Let’s hope the player will pick up and come back to show the skills that attracted FC Lorient to him.

Khephren FANGA