Sale Sharks coach Kingsley Jones has backed Sebastien Chabal to bounce back from the disappointment of being omitted from the France squad.
Chabal, who has been magnificent for the Sharks in the Premiership this season, has been axed from Bernard Laportes squad after a lacklustre performance in the 18-17 win over England, and the return to fitness of Imanol Harinordoquy.
But Jones has every confidence that the former Bourgoin back-row man will prove his worth for the Sharks, and force his way back into the national set-up.
He said: Were delighted to have Sebastien back - just having his name on the teamsheet will be a boost for everyone.
You have to feel for Sebastien. Im sure hell get back in the team, get dropped and appear back in the team again.
Thats life at international level. Plus, in the back row, with the French boys theres a lot of competition in a lot of positions.