Into the training squad came winger Vincent Clerc, Yannick Nyanga, prop Thomas Domingo, second row Christophe Samson and uncapped South African-born flanker Antoine Claassen.

And out went Maxime Mermoz, back row Damien Chouly, front row Yannick Forestier, lock Romain Taofifenua and injured flanker Fulgence Ouedraogo.

And Saint-Andre revealed would resist the temptation to call on seasoned professionals Aurelien Rougerie and Imanol Harinordoquy with the World Cup firmly on his mind.

“I stick to my philosophy,” he said. “I will call up those who have a chance to be there in 2015 if they play at the same level.”

Saint-Andre also believes that fly-half Frederic Michalak has shown tiredness in les Bleus’ two matches so far.

“You can see that it becomes hard for him from the 60th minute,” Saint-Andre added. “He is tired, both physically and mentally.”