Stade Francais coach Galthié turned to Penaud after discovering he would be without the services of fly-half David Skrela for four months.

''It was in fact (winger) Christophe Dominici who thought about Alain in the first place, and I thought it was a good idea,'' Galthié told L'Equipe.

''He has just had two superb seasons with Brive and I knew that what happened to him at Lyon was disappointing. It is inconceivable that a player of his talent would finish his career on a low note. So I asked for him to come here.''

Having not played for four months, Penaud may not be in peak physical condition but he is set to be called upon straight away.

''Brian Liebenberg is injured, Thibault Lacroix is not ready. I need Penaud quickly, but he is an experienced player who already has a good understanding of things,'' Galthié added.

Penaud said: ''I have known Fabien for a long time - since 1986 - and we have played together.

''He is the coach and I am the player. I am quite fresh physically and feel that will help me settle in.

''The only thing I am missing is the rhythm of the competition. Fabien and I speak the same language on the rugby field.''