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France's Jalibert a doubt for Six Nations clash with England after injury

AFP
Jalibert in action against Scotland
Jalibert in action against ScotlandProfimedia
France fly-half Matthieu Jalibert (23) is a serious doubt to face England in the Six Nations this weekend after suffering an ankle injury in training on Wednesday.

Jalibert was hurt in a tackle during the session and was helped off the field by coaching staff members putting him in doubt for Saturday's game at Twickenham.

The Bordeaux-Begles playmaker has been a used substitute by head coach Fabien Galthie (53) during the holders' three opening games of the Championship.

This year's Rugby World Cup hosts have claimed victories over Italy and Scotland either side of defeat to world number one side Ireland so far in this Six Nations.

Galthie could turn to La Rochelle's two-time international Antoine Hastoy (25) to stand in for Jalibert for this weekend's trip to west London, where Les Bleus last won in 2007.

Former France captain Galthie also has starting full-back Thomas Ramos (27) as an option as he can cover the No. 10 shirt.

The other selection issues facing Galthie include replacing banned tight-head prop Mohamed Haouas (28) and injured flanker Anthony Jelonch (26).

Jalibert's club team-mate Sipili Falatea (25) is an option in the front row and Francois Cros (28) is set to take Jelonch's spot.

There is also speculation as to whether Galthie recalls centre Jonathan Danty (30) to his lineup after the La Rochelle midfielder recovered from a knee issue.

Galthie will name his side to face England on Thursday with their hopes of defending their Six Nations title out of their hands with unbeaten Ireland heading to Scotland on Sunday.