Paris (AFP)
The players of the XV of France have progressed physically during the training session on Wednesday in Marcoussis (Essonne) and are "quite sharp", three days before the match of the Six Nations Tournament in England, said defense coach Shaun Edwards.
"We had a very intense training session today," said the English technician, 54, brushing aside the possible consequences on the form of the players after the episode of the outbreak of coronavirus contaminations.
"The players really improved during the training session and at the end they looked pretty sharp," he added during a video conference press briefing.
Of the twelve players who tested positive between February 19 and 25, seven are involved in the preparation of the "crunch" this week at the National Rugby Center (CNR).
They are scrum half Antoine Dupont, captain and third row Charles Ollivon, back Brice Dulin, left pillar Cyril Baille, hooker Julien Marchand, right pillar Mohamed Haouas - all holders in the first two matches of the Tournament - and of the second row Romain Taofifenua, usual substitute.
Asked about Ollivon's role in the group, Shaun Edwards said he was a "good example" for his partners, especially "because he scores a lot of tries for a forward" and because he knows how to be. "precise" and "concise" in his speeches.
What about the disciplinary problems of England, who conceded 41 penalties in three matches?
"England have very smart coaches and I'm sure they will make some adjustments," he replied.
France has "encountered problems with the penalties in the fall" but was able to make "adjustments" and "things are going pretty well for us at the moment", he added.
© 2021 AFP