Brazil striker Fred is contemplating his future at Lyon after losing his place in the starting line-up.

The 24-year-old, who missed the start of the season because of a broken foot he suffered in the Copa America, has dropped behind Karim Benzema in Les Gones' pecking order up front.

Benzema, Ligue 1's top scorer, is in stunning form and is unlikely to be displaced given his recent exploits both domestically and in the Champions League.

It has led Fred to consider his future at the Stade Gerland, and he is quoted as telling French newspaper Le Progres: "I want people to have confidence in me and for people to say to me, 'you are the number nine'.

"But at the moment, that is impossible at Lyon. We play with one out-and-out striker and Karim is playing very well.

"I don't want him to get injured so I can get back my place.

"I would like to honour my contract until 2009 but if I want to stay in top form and in the Brazil squad, I can't continue like this."

The likes of Paris St Germain and Marseille have been linked with moves for Fred.

The striker confirmed he would assess his options during the winter break, which begins after this weekend's round of Ligue 1 fixtures.

"Along with my brother, who is also my agent, I have talked to the coach and the president," Fred added

"It is best that we wait for the winter break, then we will see about my future."