France see Foden as the 'danger man'
Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:06
Ben Foden: Is he the biggest threat the French Grand Slam?
France have reportedly identified England fullback Ben Foden as the 'danger man' who could derail them from a Six Nations Grand Slam.
This is flattering news for the Northampton fullback who has never even started a Test match for England.
Delon Armitage has been England's regular No.15 recently, but was injured against Ireland and is expected to be unavailable for the next game against Scotland, which leaves Foden as the most obvious replacement.
Foden came on off the bench against Ireland and played just 21 minutes, but that was enough for France's defence coach, Dave Ellis, to let Marc Lievremont know his concern.
"England when they attacked didn't really cause Ireland any problems whatsoever, apart from when Foden came on," Ellis told the Mirror.
"There was no penetration in midfield. Ireland could reorganise their defence for numerous phases without any real problems.
"I saw enough of Foden, though, to know that he is a danger man, a guy who can pose a major threat.
"In the past it has been Jason Robinson that France have had to keep an eye on. Like Robinson, Foden offers that threat running things back.
"He can give England a bit of momentum with kick returns and we need to be aware that he's going to cause a little bit of concern if we kick sloppily."
France are very wary of England, who have won on their last two trips to Paris in the Six Nations.
However, confidence is brimming in the French team after beating the All Blacks in New Zealand last June and a strong start to this year's championship, they appear to be a big threat in next year's World Cup.
"After two semi-final exits, the World Cup is the one we want and things are falling into place and taking shape," said Ellis.
"Time will tell if this is the best France team I have worked with. But certainly it is the most complete team with regards to personnel."
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