It was feared he might be out of action until February after injuring his ankle in December, placing his participation for the start of the RBS 6 Nations in jeopardy.

But Toulouse manager Guy Noves may pitch him in earlier than planned even though Michalak might not be fit enough to play for France against Scotland on February 5 at the Stade de France.

Michalak has recovered faster than expected but the calf injury to Toulouses other fly-half Jean-Frederic Dubois has forced Noves hand.

I would have rather liked to see Fred rest for another week but the uncertainty on Jeffs (Dubois) participation does not give me any choice, Noves told LEquipe.

Michalak should however start on the bench and the manager added: Fred will only start the match if Jeff is forced to pull out.

The fact that Fred is better delights me but we will take absolutely no risks with him.

Noves also insists it may be a mistake to call up Michalak for Frances RBS 6 Nations opener with so few games under his belt.

We will have to make sure not to repeat the mistakes made a few months ago by taking a player back to international level when is just recovering from an injury and has not yet competed enough with his club, Noves added.

I think it will be too early for him to play against Scotland. Let's give him some time.

Michalak, meanwhile, feels ready to play in Europe with Toulouse at least.

He said: I have been training normally since last week but against Glasgow we did not want to take any risks.

This week the problem with Jeff changes everything. We will see what the coaches decide but I am ready.

I am on the right track but I lack competitive matches. I must rediscover my touch if Im to live up expectations.