Matthieu Jalibert looks up to role model 'Owen Farrell' ahead of possible France debut

Uncapped France fly-half Matthieu Jalibert stated that England's Owen Farrell has had a major influence on his career.

The 19-year-old was called-up by France boss Jacques Brunel for the Six Nations 2018 tournament and is in line to make his debut.

France are set to host Ireland in their tournament opener on Saturday and Jalibert is doing everything within his limit to be prepared for a debut, if he gets a chance.

Asked to cite his role model as a fly-half, Jalibert replied: “Owen Farrell, I hope to have the opportunity to play against him.

“After him there is obviously (New Zealand fly-half) Beauden Barrett, but Owen is someone who I ardently follow, I analyse a lot of his videos.

“I love watching him play because I find him super elegant. He is also really solid defensively. That is a real plus at international level.”

Jalibert, a member of France Under 20 team also made his professional rugby debut with Bordeaux Begles last year.

When quizzed on his sudden elevation, Jalibert said: “It is a little hard to get a grasp of. This year is going really fast, everything is happening to me at lightning speed.

“I am also taking a step back to try and assess what has happened, I know nothing is set in stone and it is up to me to carry on working so that it continues.

“I know that I have had an enormous opportunity to be here. It is for me to prove to Jacques and the coaching staff that they were correct in selecting me.

“Even though I had already been to Marcoussis with the Under-20s squad and I know Jacques (Brunel) and the players from Bordeaux Begles, this is a new experience for me.

“There was a little apprehension at the moment of coming to Marcoussis and to meet new players.

“However, those of us fresh to the squad were integrated well. It is a huge pride I feel, I am very honoured to work with this group.

“I feel ready for this challenge though. It is imperative that I am ready.

“I try not to think about it too much, I am preparing for this match calmly and without placing too much pressure on myself. We will see if Jacques decides to put me in the match day squad.”