Kept off the pitch for three weeks because of an administrative block on his licence, the Montauban back-rower will make his return to the starting XV on Saturday, against Castres. He could even wear the captain’s armband, as he waits to appear before the LNR disciplinary committee over his comments about Fabien Galthié – a hearing now set for 15 October.

The tense suspense around Fred Quercy is finally coming to an end. The player, absent for three weeks – notably because of a temporary suspension of his licence – has been brought back into the Montauban XV for the visit of Castres Olympique, according to a report by Rugbyrama, which we are able to confirm. According to several sources, he should even take back the captaincy for the match.

That period of “rest” followed a stormy episode: Quercy is facing disciplinary proceedings for “damaging the higher interests of rugby” after fierce criticism of Fabien Galthié. While his hearing was initially set for 8 October, it has been pushed back to 15 October at the request of his lawyer. Until the verdict, Quercy remains free to play, his licence having been restored after the provisional suspension was lifted. It remains to be seen how this return will be received on the pitch, and above all whether he can bring together a group shaken during his absence.