Gunther, who has been in outstanding form for Toulon is also regarded as a challenger for a spot and Michalak admits the work he has put in this season would make him a perfect candidate.

He said: “I think [Pierrick] has a good chance. He has had a very good start to the season and physically he is impressive. Of course I’m not the coach but having seen the work he has done since the start of the season he would deserve his selection.

“We have a lot of good youngsters so it’s great for French rugby to see them coming through.”

Teenage centre Gael Fickou is another name which has been mentioned after his impressive displays for Michalak’s former club Toulouse and the 29-year-old revealed that he had not been surprised by the youngster's rapid progression.

He added: “I had heard about him in the French age group sides so I knew about him. He’s in a squad with a lot of good players and that has allowed to focus on his abilities. I’m not surprised at how well he is doing and I hope he will continue to progress.”