Former Ireland team manager Michael Kearney has been appointed to the board of European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR).

France international centre Gaël Fickou admits victory over a weakened Scotland has restored “a little confidence” in their under-fire squad, but Sunday’s clash with Ireland in Dublin will be a “step up” in class.

PLANS to streamline the French club championship will need to take into account France’s Test commitments in the buildup to the 2007 Rugby World Cup.