Monaco 1-1 Lille

Colombia striker Radamel Falcao was missing as Monaco's stuttering start to the French season continued with a home draw against Lille.

Falcao, 28, was dropped from the squad shortly before Saturday's match - increasing speculation that he might leave the principality club.

He scored the winner against Nantes last weekend and was expected to play.

In Falcao's absence, Dimitar Berbatov levelled for Monaco after Nolan Roux's low volley had put Lille ahead.

With the transfer deadline day on Monday, ex-Atletico Madrid striker Falcao has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid on a season-long loan.

He was included in Monaco's initial squad, but took no part in the warm-up and was not named among the substitutes.

Lille, who finished third, nine points behind Ligue 1 runners-up Monaco last season, took the lead in the 18th minute before ex-Manchester United forward Berbatov levelled shortly after the hour mark.

The draw means Leonardo Jardim's Monaco have now taken four points from their opening four matches, while the unbeaten visitors are now second.

Falcao watched Monaco's draw against Lille from the stands alongside sporting director Vadim Vasilyev.