The Croatian international's second-half strikes after coming off the bench were his first for Les Canaris since his move from Werder Bremen last summer, while the unexpected three points they earned helped lift Elie Baup's men away from the relegation zone.

Klasnić's four-month-long goal drought had given rise to speculation he may quit the club in the January transfer market, but the 28-year-old is now looking ahead to a brighter future.

'Difficult start'

"The start was difficult," he told the club's official website. "But we're working to change that each week. I hope it's going to get better and better. If we play like we have in the last two matches, then things can only improve."

The win over the champions followed a 2-0 defeat of Le Havre, only the second time this campaign Baup's side have put together successive wins. Klasnić pointed out that an upturn in fortunes for the team meant his job was easier.

"Of course I'm happy that I've ended my drought," he said. "It's good I scored, because a forward is judged on his goals. I'm satisfied, but like I've always said, I can only play well if the team plays well."

'Confidence and qualify'

The match against the champions was the first time Klasnić had come off the bench in the 13 league matches he has featured in for his new club. Despite his success, the German-born striker is not keen to repeat the experience, though he did downplay his post-match comments on the matter.

"I simply said that I wasn't happy not to be starting the game against Lyon," said Klasnić. "It's not my job to stay on the bench. I came here to play. I've got too much confidence and quality to stay on the bench."

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