PHOTO: Mathieu Valbuena's return to Marseille greeted with graphic effigy

Lyon's pint-sized midfielder Mathieu Valbuena returned to Marseille's Stade Velodrome for the first time Sunday since plying his trade with the south coast club from 2006-14 and was welcomed with stirring symbol.

(courtesy: @ActuFoot_)

Marseille gaffer Michel admitted Valbuena deserves whatever reception awaits his return, saying, "What I am going to say is not malicious. You need to take it the right way. It's part of the warmth of a stadium. Players who go from one club to another deserve it in some way.

"It is clear that by changing club, knowing the rivalry, you are not going to receive a bouquet of flowers," Michel said, making the understatement of the century.