31.05.2003 - Reds targets star as Auxerre lift cup

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Goals from Djibril Cisse and Jean-Alain Boumsong helped Auxerre come back from a goal down to lift the French Cup tonight at the Stade de France.

Both players have been strongly linked with moves to Liverpool over the summer, along with Boumsong's defensive partner Philippe Mexes, and all three played their part in helping Auxerre to only the fourth major honour in the club's 98 year history.

Hugo Leal gave Paris SG the lead after half an hour, though after the same player was sent off midway through the second half, Auxerre went on to dominate the game and deservedly drew level through Cisse with just over 13 minutes remaining, with the highly rated striker stretching to direct the ball past the Paris SG 'keeper.

From then on, there was only going to be one winner, and with just a minute of normal time remaining, Boumsong volleyed a shot from close range into the roof of the net to give Auxerre a dramatic late win.

Gerard Houllier has already spoke to Auxerre manager Guy Roux about the possibility of signing players such as Cisse and Boumsong, and with the French season now over, the pair are likely to make a decision on their futures shortly.

Cisse is said to be valued at £10m, with Boumsong likely to be available for around £3-4m.