France's record-chasing left wing Damien Penaud is expected to return to the starting lineup for their crucial Six Nations clash against Ireland. Head coach Fabien Galthié hinted at changes to the backline, with Romain Ntamack and Gael Fickou also likely to regain their starting positions.
Damien Penaud : looks set to be recalled for the crucial Six Nations clash against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium. Photograph: Andrew Fosker/Inpho
Penaud, despite scoring a try in the 26-25 defeat to England at Twickenham, was dropped following a couple of high-profile mistakes for the victory over Italy. Galthié explained: “We have complete confidence in Damian . Since 2020, he has always been a starter with us when he was available. He is a player who means a lot to us, a player in whom we have invested. There is no question or doubt about his level of performance or commitment.
Penaud, who is one behind France’s all-time leading try scorer, the great Serge Blanco , has demonstrated a knack of scoring against Ireland, having done so three times in Six Nations matches including twice in Dublin. His seventh and 22nd tries in French colours were at the Aviva Stadium while he also crossed the Irish line in last season’s Six Nations game in Marseille.
Giant secondrow Meafou started the game against England but missed the trip to Rome with an illness from which he has recovered.
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