Perpignan front rower Cotet admits it was far from the ideal start for les Bleuets, but with an opening win in the bag they will move on to the Stade Marcel Michelin in relatively good spirits.

“Against Italy, a team who were much better-prepared than us, we lacked a little coordination because we'd only had three training sessions to prepare for the opening game,” said Cotet.

“It sets us on the right path, but the result doesn't give us a lot of confidence. We will have more time to train this week at Marcoussis.”

Cotet’s domestic teammate Romain Fernandez should add some dynamism to the squad after being called up this week.

The 19-year-old winger admits he was surprised to be given the nod by coach Fabien Pelous but intends to grab the opportunity with both hands.

He said: “I found out after the match against my old club Lyon. I was very surprised but very happy as well.”