Six Nations: France boss Galthié anoints Jalibert as fly-half for 'Le Crunch'

France head coach Fabien Galthié on Thursday named Matthieu Jalibert for the playmaking role in the Six Nations clash on Saturday against England - a game nicknamed Le Crunch.

Galthié kept faith with the 22-year-old despite the return from injury of Romain Ntamack who has been France's regular fly-half since the 2019 Six Nations tournament.

Out of action since fracturing his jaw in December, Ntamack returned for his Top 14 side Toulouse in last weekend's match against Brive.

The 21-year-old started and played 69 minutes in the 42-17 win.

"Jalibert responds to what we expect from a fly-half in our team," said Galthié. "Romain is coming back. He has played one game for Toulouse and it's important that he comes back with us.

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"It's logical that Jalibert plays due to their current form and how many games they've played," he added.

France defender Virimi Vakatawa will make his first appearance of this year's tournament at Twickenham after missing the opening two victories against Italy and Ireland with a knee injury.

France, who are seeking a first Six Nations title since 2010, have not won in west London since 2005.

Galthié's men though will start as favourites against the 2020 champions who have lost to Scotland and Wales in the 2021 campaign.

In the weekend's other games, Italy entertain Wales and Scotland host Ireland on Sunday.