Vainqueur finally joins Monaco despite failing medical

PARIS >> Two days after failing a medical due to a calf problem, midfielder William Vainqueur has joined struggling Monaco on loan from Turkish club Antalyaspor.

Although only a minor calf injury, it was enough for Monaco to pull out of the move on Thursday because the club needed him available straight away.

But Monaco says it changed its mind because of the player’s strong “motivation” to play for the club.

Monaco is 19th in the French league heading into Sunday’s match at Marseille. Because the club is likely facing a relegation fight until the rest of the season, Monaco vice president Vadim Vasilyev says it needs strong-minded characters like Vainqueur.

In order to convince the club to sign him, Vainqueur — which means “Winner” in French — reportedly offered not to be paid until he plays.

The 30-year-old Frenchman brings valuable experience, having previously impressed in spells with Nantes and Marseille.