France coach Fabien Galthie has insisted his side will be “ready to respond” to some typical Eddie Jones taunts when they attempt to win a first Six Nations title since 2010 by defeating England in Paris on Saturday.
Les Bleus are also bidding for a first Grand Slam in 12 years and victory over England in the final game of this season’s Championship would be a huge morale boost ahead of next year’s World Cup on home soil.
France entered this Six Nations as favourites after a November campaign that culminated with a dazzling 40-25 win over New Zealand at a raucous Stade de France. But they were far from their attacking best in a nervous 13-9 victory away to Wales last week, for all a defence marshalled by specialist coach Shaun Edwards held firm.
None of this is lost on England boss Jones, who loves to unsettle the opposition with a few well-chosen words. Galthie, however, speaking after naming his side, said Thursday: “We listen and absorb what our opponents say about themselves and us. And that contributes to our work, our preparation.
“But the rendezvous is Saturday evening at the Stade de France. And we will be ready to respond.”
The former France captain, who took charge after the 2019 World Cup, added: “We have learnt from our defeats.”
© Agence France-Presse
