Salomon Kalou made the move from Chelsea to Lille in July 2012. Despite facing criticism and uncertainty during his initial season, the Ivorian striker hit his stride in the second half of the campaign. He concluded the season in France with an exceptional performance, scoring 14 goals in 28 matches. Since then, occupying a prominent role in the forward position instead of Nolan Roux, Kalou has already netted 4 goals in 9 Ligue 1 matches.
Starting this season on a high note, Kalou expresses satisfaction with his current role just hours before the first leg of the Brazil 2014 World Cup play-off against Senegal. He highlights his contentment, stating, “I arrived at a club where I am in better conditions. In addition, I play a position that I really like. I will say my favorite position. This is where I like to play. So that totally frees me. At the same time, it promotes performance. I am a striker and I like to play up front. The former coach understood this well and repositioned me during the second part of last season. If I keep performing, it’s because I feel liberated,” as conveyed to Sport Ivoire.
The question now is whether Sabri Lamouchi will comprehend Kalou’s preferences and position him accordingly against the Lions of Teranga
