Claude Puel's long-term position as Lyon coach looked increasingly untenable on Wednesday as it slumped to its worst defeat since 2006 with a 4-0 drubbing by Auxerre to end its outside hope of winning the title and extend a three-year trophy drought.

The title now rests between leader Lille and defending champion Marseille, which trails by four points with three matches remaining after easing to a 3-0 home win over struggling Brest.

Marseille coach Didier Deschamps was delighted his side had reacted in the best possible manner after its 3-2 defeat by Lyon on Sunday as it took the three points with goals by Loic Remy, Jordan Ayew and veteran Gabriel Heinze.

"I am very happy with our performance and the result," said Deschamps. "We are not forbidden from dreaming, but we should be realistic, our hopes are tiny of winning the title. Lille have the odds more in their favor."