Movement at Sapiac. USM have seen their Irish giant Frank Bradshaw Ryan (30, 2.06m) leave on loan for Carcassonne. The lock was short of game time and will try to relaunch himself after a few physical niggles in particular.

At the same time, though, the promoted side are welcoming a brand new player into their ranks. The sturdy New Zealand centre Gibson Popoali’i is arriving from Counties Manukau.

Espeut extends

At 28, he was able to play at full-back and he can kick goals. Popoali’i arrives with an interesting profile, blending technique and power (106 kg on the scales). A far from negligible addition with the relegation fight in mind.

More good news for USM, the extension, according to La Dépêche, of the versatile Maxime Espeut (25), until 2029. Having arrived from Béziers two seasons ago now, the wing or centre has given complete satisfaction.