Monaco

Monaco's Claudio Ranieri pleased with perfect start

By Liam Power, Reporter | 19 August 2013

Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri declares himself happy with the perfect start to life in Ligue , after claiming successive wins over Bordeaux and Montpellier.

Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri believes that his side have shown strength in depth early on after winning their first two games back in Ligue 1.

Ranieri's side have a 100% record after taking maximum points from both of their league games this season, with the latest win coming in a 4-1 home rout over Montpellier last weekend.

The Italian believes that winning in style yesterday without some of his marquee summer signings, including James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho, shows that his team have the staying power to impose their style on the French top fight this season.

He told Ligue 1's official website: "Things are perfect right now, six points from two matches. But it was very difficult, against a very compact side. Still, Monaco played well and I'm satisfied.

"It's important to win but also to play well, so I'm happy. Emmanuel Riviere trains every day with character and professionalism and he's in good shape mentally and physically.

"It's very important that we won without Rodriguez and Moutinho, it proves that the whole squad is sticking to the plan. Now I'm looking ahead at what's to come, and I know it won't be easy."

The principality's strike pair of Radamel Falcao and Riviere have been in fine form so far this season, scoring two and four goals respectively.