No player embodies the adventurous and stout-hearted nature of Franck Haise’s Lens side more than the mercurial Seko Fofana.
In a neutrals’ favourite of a team filled to the brim with cult heroes, the 26-year-old’s consistently brilliant performances put him a cut above, and have seen him outclass every other midfielder in Ligue 1 this year.
The Ivorian international joined from Udinese in the summer of 2020, turning down high-profile offers from England and Italy in favour of the newly-promoted Sang et Or.
Having seen his debut delayed until November by injury, Fofana more than made up for lost time and by the turn of the year was a pivotal piece of Lens’ unexpected push for Europe. Their swashbuckling, all-action approach to games was epitomised by the midfielder’s tireless work on and off the ball, breezing past opposition lines to make up the vital cog in their lightning-quick transitions.
How would you judge your year from a personal standpoint? Fofana was asked by GetFootballNews France and he responded as follows:
“I think I got better throughout the year. Initially I was a little injured, then I was able to adapt to the team, who were already doing a great job, so I am proud, I am happy. I have been able to play matches consistently without injuries. I think I have missed just 13 minutes this season. It is a source of pride to be on the pitch and performing well.”
Fofana has 6 Ligue 1 goals this season for Lens so far.