INTERVIEW. XV of France: “Grateful to know that I am in the loop”… Castres Florent Vanverberghe talks about his “pride” at being in Marcoussis

How did you learn of your call-up to the France team?

Fabien Galthié called me on Sunday morning to ask about my physical condition. As I had to resume with the CO on Monday, I told him that I was fit. It's always a source of pride to go to Marcoussis, to join the group that beat New Zealand (30-29). It’s rewarding to know that I’m in the loop. […] Before the tour, William Servat called me and told me that I wasn't taken, especially because I was injured, but that I had to continue like this and that they had an eye on me.

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Louis Le Brun was also summoned. Did you go to Marcoussis together?

Yes, we are in the same room. We're together almost all the time. It's reassuring because you know that you are not alone in a group, you have a shoulder to lean on. With Louis, we get along very well, we often share time together in Castres.

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More personally, you started with the French development team against Uruguay (48-23 victory for the Blues). This match did not count as a selection but what memory did you keep of it?

It wasn't a selection but it was just like it. We sang the Marseillaise, we had the France jersey… There was just no symbolism with the cape. It made me very hungry to return to work in Castres. This is partly why I had a good start to the season. I'm happy right now, I feel good.

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It’s true that the start of the season went well for you. You played the first five games, including four as a starter, before your injury…

I'm a little frustrated to have injured myself (against Toulouse, October 5), it pulled the rug out from under me because I felt really good physically and mentally. I really like the game project set up by Xavier Sadourny, Jeremy Davidson trusted me. I am a player who needs confidence and to string together matches. All the ingredients were there.

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What was the exact nature of your injury?

It was a midfoot sprain. On a maul with pressure, the ligament gave way. It's not common. I still have a little pain but the ankle is quite stable and reinforced. That's why I'm allowed to play again.

You extended Castres until 2028. Tell us how this extension came to the table…

I have excellent relations with the club management. When we got in touch, it was very simple and fairly quick. It was obvious for me to extend because I love the club, the values, the supporters, the city…

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Finally, a word on the appointment of Xavier Sadourny as head coach next season. How did you receive the news?

Alright ! I think Xavier could be the man for the job. I get along very well with him. I believe in what he says and what he does. […] What if I see him as a head coach? Yes because he is a straight, honest man. Whether you are a 3 or 200 game player, he will tell you your truths. So, no worries on this point.