 Magne is unlikely to feature in this year's tournament |
France flanker Olivier Magne is set to miss the entire RBS Six Nations with a persistent foot injury. The 31-year-old has been out of action for two months and has had a third cortisone injection for a problem that may eventually require surgery.
"My foot is improving but it will take some time for me to recover fully," said Magne, who has won 80 caps.
"I think I will be back in about six weeks, so there is not much chance of playing in any of the Six Nations."
The absence of Magne and Serge Betsen, who is set to miss opening games with Scotland and England, leaves coach Bernard Laporte with a back row headache.
Sale's Sebastian Chabal is likely to come into the side, while Imanol Harinordoquy could move to open-side flanker.
Biarritz captain Thomas Lievremont could also be recalled at number eight.
Magne, who is set to leave Clermont Auvergne at the end of the season, could play in the Zurich Premiership next season.
"Nothing has been decided but I have had calls from several English clubs," Magne confirmed.
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