When did you first play rugby?

I started playing at school and in my village when I was six. I went to Brive when I was 18, but couldn’t get into the first team because we had many stars like Andy Goode and Shaun Perry, so I moved to Grenoble. I’ve also played for France U18, U19, U20.

Do you prefer playing scrum-half or fly-half?

Now I prefer scrum-half, and my efforts are going into developing my game as a nine. But if my team needs me to I can play ten.

Who do you admire? 

When I was younger, Carlos Spencer was a big star; his technique was great and he gave a lot of players a tough time! Now Kahn Fotuali’i and Will Genia impress me. Genia is very powerful.

Grenoble are mid-table in the Top 14 – how’s life at the club?

We’re in good spirits and have a lot of good players. There are also a lot of foreign players from Australia and New Zealand. The ambience is good and the coaches are happy as this year has been spectacular for us. We’ve only just arrived from the second division!

Where did you learn to speak English?

At Brive, when a lot of foreign players arrived and I was spending time with them.

What are your aims?

It’s every French player’s dream to play for France, but I try not to let the idea enter my head. If it happens I’ll be happy!

RW Verdict: 

A half-back with Top 14 experience could be coming to France’s rescue next season.