France expecting Antonie Dupont to return for quarter-finals

France assistant coach William Servat said the Les Bleus are confident of skipper Antonie Dupont's return ahead of the quarter-finals following his latest injury setback.

Dupont, who was one of the try-scorer in their 96-0 dominating victory against Namibia had to leave the field in the 46th minute after he was tackled dangerously by his counterpart Johan Deysel, who was sent off for the offence.

The 26-year-old walked from the field with an icepack on his cheek and was initially expected to miss the remainder of the tournament which could have been a decisive blow to the hosts.

Nevertheless, Servat revealed that Dupont had successfully undergone a surgery and is set to resume his training on Sunday much to the relief of the Les Bleus.

“Antoine is in great order today. The operation went very well, and he is resting," he told on Tuesday.

“He will return for training on Sunday. Friday and Saturday are our rest days, he will have the time to return in this period of time.

“I have no doubts about his ability to play in the quarter-final. I think it is reasonable to say that.”

With three wins from as many games, France hold the top place in Pool A with 13 points and they are closely followed by Italy and New Zealand at second and third positions respectively.