The information was revealed by our colleagues at Midi-Olympique. The 20-year-old of New Caledonian origin, who arrived at RCT during the summer from New Zealand, has undergone surgery to sort out a recurring knee problem that was holding back his integration into the professional squad.

Although the operation was a success, Patrick Tuifua is expected to be out for at least three months according to the twice-weekly paper. The setback is another blow for the France U20 international, who had been able to play only two Top 14 matches since the start of the season.

The Var staff will be without the promising player for a large part of the season. His return is hoped for in the spring, depending on how his rehabilitation progresses.