Massive blow as France lose star wing

INJURY UPDATE: Flyhalf Matthieu Jalibert has replaced injured wing Teddy Thomas in France's squad for Saturday's potential Six Nations title decider against Ireland, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) announced.

The 27-year-old scored Les Bleus' fifth try in last Saturday's victory over Wales and will be "unavailable for an unknown length of time" with a hamstring problem, the FFR said Tuesday.

Bordeaux-Begles' Jalibert, 21, withdrew from the squad two weeks ago due to an unspecified medical reason but media reports claimed he had tested positive for coronavirus.

Uncapped Gabin Villiere and Arthur Retiere are the other wingers in coach Fabien Galthie's set-up.

Galthie could also move centre Gael Fickou to the flank and bring Arthur Vincent into midfield as was the case for two matches before the Six Nations was re-scheduled after the Covid-19 outbreak.

Fullback Anthony Bouthier who was replaced at half-time of last weekend's victory after suffering concussion will only return to training at the end of the week at the earliest.

Galthie could also be without lock Bernard Le Roux who faces a disciplinary hearing later on Tuesday after appearing to elbow Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones.

Galthie names his side to face Andy Farrell's men at the Stade de France at 10.00 (GMT) on Thursday.