Dunkerque enjoyed Ligue 2 survival largely thanks to a strong start to the season that saw them 20 points in the first 14 games. Thereafter, they struggled for success and only achieved survival on the final day of the campaign thanks to a thrilling 3-3 draw against a depleted Toulouse outfit.
There were signs from the outset that the campaign could be complicated as key man Kevin Rocheteau suffered a serious injury before it had even begun. He would go on to play little role over the course of the season. Indeed, he managed only seven minutes in the league.
Nevertheless, Dunkerque did reasonably well in attack, where Malik Tchokounte belatedly came onto a game to score 10 goals in 34 matches – an important return. Cheick Diarra, meanwhile, chipped in with six but was a little wasteful at times.
Similarly, there could have been more of a contribution from the midfield. Ilan Kebbal was largely excellent in a creative capacity and was certainly a key performer, yet only three goals was somewhat disappointing.
The midfield, meanwhile, was also hit by a very significant injury issue as Nicolas Bruneel suffered a serious knee problem when just coming into a strong period of form. They struggled to find a regular central partner for Redouane Kerrouche as a consequence, with Emeric Dudouit surprisingly becoming a key player in the midfield sector, despite being signed with a view to being a back up. His performances were a bonus.
In the defence, too, Dunkerque had their problems. Harouna Sy was eye catching in the first half of the season but faded thereafter, while their centre-backs struggled to stay fit for any length of time and prevented a solid understanding ever being found. In goal, Axel Maraval gave good service.
Ultimately, this season was all about survival, and a Covid cluster in the squad certainly complicated that. They will be looking to push on next term but need greater consistency in their selection and a little more killer instinct in attack.
