Bodmer ready for Spain barrier

Combative team
Few expected the inexperienced French side to be in contention for qualification on Matchday 6, particularly after their opening-day defeat at SL Benfica. But Claude Puel's combative team have not conceded a goal in four games since then, and travel to El Madrigal second in the section, just a point behind the Spanish side.

'A new challenge'
Bodmer has been an integral part of the impressive resurgence. The rangy central midfielder has grown in stature throughout the group phase and is relishing the trip to Villarreal. "It's going to be a difficult game because they're a really skilful side," Bodmer told uefa.com. "But we're less tentative now and we're looking at every match like a new challenge. We know we can compete at this level, so it's up to us impose our style and take the three points we need."

Old Trafford draw
A solitary point would be good enough should Benfica draw with Manchester United FC in the group's other game. And having taken four points from their two matches against Sir Alex Ferguson's team, few could argue that Lille would not deserve their qualification. "Getting a draw at Old Trafford was a turning point in terms of confidence," said the 23-year-old. "The match was heated at times, but we refused to lie down and proved we have the physical toughness to compete with English clubs."

'I need stability'
Lille's plight was given a further boost last week when Bodmer extended his contract until 2011. The former French Under-21 international is being tracked by a host of clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain FC, Arsenal FC and AC Milan, but insists he is in no hurry to leave northern France. "More than anything I need stability right now," Bodmer explained. "This is only my third season playing in Ligue 1 and I believe the best place to continue my progression is at Lille."

Lille commitment
When Puel signed Bodmer in 2003 he was struggling to establish himself with Ligue 2 side SM Caen. Now he wants to repay the manager's faith, saying: "Lille were the only club who came knocking when I wasn't in the Caen team, and everyone here made an effort to help me settle. I'm flattered when I hear that big clubs are watching me - it means I must be playing well. But right now I don't even want to know. I just want to concentrate on doing well with Lille."

'Continue the adventure'
Puel described Bodmer's decision to prolong his deal as "a strong sign of trust from a player who is attracting a great deal of interest". It means that all of Lille's top young players - Matt Moussilou, Stéphane Dumont, Jean Makoun and Nicolas Fauvergue included - have committed their futures to the club. "We have a strong group and we're growing and learning together," Bodmer continued. "I signed because I want to continue the adventure with everybody else."

Makoun partnership
The chance to continue playing alongside Makoun was also a significant factor. The industrious Cameroonian provides a perfect foil for the more attack-minded Bodmer, and the pair have forged a remarkably effective partnership. "Playing alongside Jean is easy," Bodmer said. "His positioning is always spot on and he wins so many balls." Lille will be hoping their dynamic midfield duo can drive them into the knockout stages tonight.