A standing ovation for Nabil Fekir in what was tipped to be his final game for Lyon has fuelled suggestions he is close to a move to Liverpool.
Pre-match indications that he would be making a farewell appearance against Nice promised a watchful eye over the reaction to his exit from the game in the 83rd minute.
His withdrawal was met with rapturous applause from the home supporters, seemingly in acknowledgement of his likely departure this summer.
This followed mid-game reports that a move to Liverpool worth around £62million was ‘99% complete.
#Replay🎥 L’ovation pour la sortie de Nabil #Fekir, pour ce qui était sans doute son dernier match avec l’OL : pic.twitter.com/GUyxlGWf5Q
— Inside Gones (@InsideGones) May 19, 2018
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If it was to be Fekir’s last game for the club, it was a special way to say farewell as his side beat Nice 3-2 to seal a third-place finish and Champions League qualification on the final day of the Ligue 1 season.
Fekir himself provided a vital assist for Memphis Depay to draw Lyon level after the visitors had threatened to spoil the party with an early goal.
The 24-year-old’s emotional reaction to the final whistle evidenced comments he made later that evening in regards to his commitment to the club.
A refreshing feature to the night was the subsequent appreciation from those inside the Groupama Stadium for his dedication to finishing the job.
Providing reports are accurate, Liverpool will not only be gaining a gifted athlete but also an admirable professional.