The 34-year-old has been out of action for most of the season with a thigh problem.
Cris said: “I’m coming back with a huge desire to play. It’s difficult to go two months without playing. My aim is to play, not get the captain’s armband.
“I’ve already played without being captain and was named best defender in Ligue 1. I can still be a leader without it.”
Dejan Lovren and Bakary Kone has impressed so far as centre-backs for Lyon this season.
Cris continued: “They’ve had a great start to the season and played spectacularly. It’s great as that means I can just get my head down and work.
“Things will come with games. It’s good for the team to have four centre-backs available. We’ll need everyone this season.”
