France shuffle backline in training as fresh injury concern raises head

France’s flyhalf injury crisis could yet deepen further ahead of their Six Nations opener against Ireland, with Matthieu Jalibert not participating in full team training – report L’Equipe.

The training camp, which started on Monday with two days of light sessions, intensified this Wednesday in Marcoussis, just nine days before the crucial match in Marseille on February 2. France are still without Toulouse stand-off Romain Ntamack – who injured himself on the eve of the Rugby World Cup last year – meaning a potential injury for Jailbert would be enough keenly felt by Fabien Gatlhie’s side.

During the afternoon session, Jalibert was seen doing separate running exercises with a physiotherapist, rather than joining the collective drills. This development raises concerns about his readiness for the upcoming Six Nations tournament, although he is still expected to start against Andy Farrell’s men in Marseille.

The Bordeaux player, who recently sustained a minor cut on his left hand requiring three stitches, was later observed practising kicks, suggesting no serious discomfort.

In Jalibert’s absence, Thomas Ramos donned the number 10 jersey during the team exercises. This shift led to a rearrangement in the backline, with Louis Bielle-Biarrey moving to fullback and Yoram Moefana stepping in on the wing. The centre pairing featured Jonathan Danty and Gaël Fickou, while Damian Penaud occupied the other wing position, and Maxime Lucu took on the scrum-half role.

This morning France called up 21-year-old Stade Francais flyhalf Léo Barré as one of six additional players.