La Rochelle sign Aussie prop Feao

The 25-year-old tighthead has been signed as cover in a position that has proved problematic for La Rochelle in recent weeks.

Uini Atonio has been absent due to an international call up with France while Georgian Lekso Kaulashvili has recently undergone a back operation.

That leaves only Vincent Pelo as an available tighthead but he too may be called up by France.

"With the internationals, the injuries and the appointments we have coming up, we had to find a solution," said La Rochelle coach Patrice Collazo.

"At this time of year and in particular in that position, the market is very difficult with big competitions about to start in the Southern Hemisphere.

"We believe David is a good solution but there's always a bit of uncertainty."

Feao joins from Brisbane where he was playing in the Australian National League.

Agence France-Presse