Marc Lievremont succeeded Bernard Laporte after the 2007 World Cup, an inconsistent tournament for the hosts.

The former flanker is no stranger to the Five/Six Nations, having won 25 caps from 1995-1999.

The 38-year-old may lack senior coaching experience but knows the young crop of French players well having overseen the Under-21s for two years.

Having culled a huge swathe of established players, and seen four more retire, Lievremont has made a bold statement of intent - but will it pay off?

606: Six Nations coaches