French still believe in World Cup glory

France team manager Jo Maso believes his side can win the World Cup this autumn despite failing to retain their Grand Slam title.

Les Bleus grabbed two wins over Scotland and Italy, but their two other defeats to Grand Slam contenders England and Ireland have ruined their RBS 6 Nations hopes.

Four years ago, France had experienced a similar situation as they finished fifth in the table before reaching the World Cup final, only to be beaten by Australia.

And Maso claims if he compares both situations, there is every reason to be optimistic this time around as the team is much stronger – both individually and collectively.

“The situation is very different from 1999,” Maso said. “We had played an appalling tournament before performing well at the World Cup thanks to tremendous work.

“We definitely are in a better position than four years ago. This year we have a great confidence.

“In 1999, we reached the final, so you can imagine what could happen this time.

“We are going to work a lot in the next few months to give us the best chance possible.”

Maso also insists there are no sense of what might have been as England and Ireland prepare to clash in a Grand Slam decider on Sunday.

“We don’t have any regrets,” he added. “We won it last year and it is not so long ago.

“We were not far from beating both these teams this year.

“We might not be the best team in the world, but we know that we have the potential to unbalance any side.

“The match between Ireland and England will be exciting. The English deserve to be there, they are organised, solid and have great players.

“However, the Irish will be playing at home, they will do all they can to win, and I feel this is going to be a fantastic clash.”