Les Bleus had a sobering and morale-sapping run of autumn internationals, losing heavily to New Zealand, twice, and only scraping past Argentina 27-26.

But confidence has flooded back into the French camp thanks to strong performances in their opening two games of the RBS 6 Nations, which has seen them beat Italy 39-3 and Ireland 20-17 away from home.

Castaignede, who is yet to play in this year's tournament, can see the good times returning to Les Bleus.

'We have played two fantastic matches with a lot of quality,' he said.

'They were two important games because after that difficult autumn, we had to rediscover our confidence and morale.

'The game against Ireland really showed that we would never capitulate.

'At the moment, this France team is full of confidence. The tournament is going very well for us.

'We also have a lot of players who had not been playing for us, but have been part of the France XV last last few games and who have shown some great things. There is a very positive rivalry here.'

Saracens utility back Castagnede could make his bow in this year's Six Nations in next Saturday's match against Wales at the Stade de France.

He has been nursing a thigh injury since the start of January, but returned to training on Wednesday and hopes to be fit for next weekend.

'I am working every day to build up my injured thigh,' he said.

'I've had a recurring tear so it's been necessary to work on it so as to avoid the injury returning again.

'I am trying to return as quickly as possible so I can be back in competitive action. Next is Wales and I hope to be selected if I am fit.'

Head coach Bernard Laporte is set to ring the changes once again when on Sunday evening he announces his squad for the Wales match.

Castaignede could replace Clement Poitrenaud at full-back, while the front row could be overhauled, with Sebastien Bruno, Nicolas Mas, Laurent Emmanuelli and Benoit August eyeing starts.

The only two players missing from training at the back end of this week have been Fabien Pelous (ankle) and Remy Martin (virus).