Injury-plagued Rennes midfielder Yoann Gourcuff admitted he feared the worst following a nasty collision with a team-mate during Saturday's 2-2 draw with Lorient as he made his first appearance in 10 months.

The France playmaker, who rejoined Rennes in November, came on as a substitute 15 minutes from time, but was left with bruising to his ankle and knee after he was clattered by Cheikh Mbengue in stoppage time as both players attempted a shot.

"Yes, I was very scared because it was a violent collision and the situation was an unlikely one, but it's nothing serious and the tests have been reassuring," said Gourcuff, who was officially presented to the media on Tuesday.

Gourcuff, who won the last of his 31 France caps in June 2013, added he was "rather moved and surprised" by the reception he received from Rennes fans after replacing Juan Fernando Quintero.

He added: "It's always important and appreciated when you feel supported by the fans. But at the same time I felt a bit awkward because I'm quite a reserved person. I was almost a little embarrassed by the reception I got."