Cédric Chasseur 11:41 a.m., February 1, 2024, modified at 11:43 a.m., February 1, 2024

Ill since yesterday, Lyon second row Romain Taofifenua is doubtful to face Ireland tomorrow in Marseille, at the opening of the VI Nations tournament. If he were to withdraw, it would be Posolo Tuilagi who would be begging him on the substitutes' bench. The Perpignan player was urgently recalled by the Blues staff.

It's one more glitch that Fabien Galthié would have done well without. Already deprived of several elements due to injury, such as the second lines Thibaut Flament and Emmanuel Meafou, or the third line Anthony Jelonch, the coach of the XV of France must face a new hitch, less than 48 hours from facing the Ireland, opening the VI Nations Tournament.

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A player who impresses

Ill since Wednesday, second row Romain Taofifenua is doubtful for the match Friday at the Stade Vélodrome. A meeting that the giant of Lyon (two meters) with 49 caps, had to start on the bench as a finisher. To replace him in the event of a withdrawal, Fabien Galthié decided to recall Perpignan second row Posolo Tuilagi. Released on Tuesday by the Blues staff, the 19-year-old player of Samoan origin joined Marseille, where the French XV arrived on Wednesday at the end of the day. 

Simple "additional player" for the start of preparation last week, he had already impressed the management of the French team, who had decided this week to include him in the group of 34 called to prepare the meeting against 'Ireland. 

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Galthié will make his decision on Friday

Facing the second nation in the world, title holder of this Six Nations Tournament, Posolo Tuilagi, whose father Henry had worn the colors of Samoa ten times, could therefore in turn experience his very first selection, this time with the jersey of the French team. A decision will be taken during the day of Friday by Fabien Galthié and his deputies.