Traore - Lacombe was the key

Djimi Traore has revealed that new Monaco coach Guy Lacombe was the deciding factor in his move from Portsmouth. The Malian played under the former Paris St Germain boss while on loan at Rennes during 2008 and credits the coach with helping him regain confidence and a love of the game.Lacombe left Rennes at the start of June to takes the reins at Monaco.Traore ranks him alongside Liverpool managers Gerard Houllier and Rafael Benitez as the bosses he has learnt the most from. "I have been attracted by the project and the presence of Guy Lacombe made my decision," he told L'Equipe."I had other offers, but when he called me I didn't hesitate. With Gerard Houiller and Rafael Benitez, he is the coach who was most important to me."The 29-year-old signed a two-year deal at the Stade Louis II after failing to hold down a regular first-team place at Fratton Park.

Source: SKY_Sports