Bordeaux boss Laurent Blanc has hit out at the media for what he feels is unnecessary criticism of his side's poor start to 2010.

Les Girondins' lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table has been cut to just three points by Montpellier, and they face St Etienneon Sunday knowing that they desperately need a win.

They suffered a 4-2 defeat to Rennes last weekend before being dumped out of the Coupe de France by Monaco

Blanc's side have managed just five points from their four league games so far this year but the former Manchester United defender is furious about the criticism they have received.

He told L'Equipe: "When I read some newspapers, I think that journalists are incredibly sad. It is true that we must go back and rethink some things, we're all aware, players and staff, but there is no pessimism.

"Do I need to show you the balance sheet 2009, to remember that we're the team that took the most points at home and away? At mid-season, we were exceptional, particularly with 2.67 points per game at home. We will not apologise."

But Blanc did admit that his side need to improve if they are to retain their title.

"We must react, because in 2010 the results are not good," he said.

"We are not up to what we used to do."

Bordeaux will be without midfielder Alou Diarra, who continues to struggle to overcome a groin strain, but Marouane Chamakh and Marc Planus are set to return from suspension.

St Etienne currently lie 16th in the table but beat Monaco 3-0 in their last league outing.

However, they will be without defenders Moustapha Bayal Sall and Yohan Andreu, and midfielder Christophe Landrin at Stade Chaban-Delmas.