France doc delivers cautious update on Antoine Dupont

France's team doctor Bruno Boussagol has laid out a timeline for the return of Antoine Dupont to the rugby field after a cheek-busting incident threatened his participation in the Rugby World Cup.

France continue to sweat on the health of the 'little general' who many rate as the best player in the world.

While the Rugby World Cup hosts hold their breath, positive news continues to emanate from the French camp.

“He called me yesterday to get some advice on his follow-up,” said Boussagol. “His bruising has dissipated. He had pain linked to the frontal impact he received, but it is progressing very favourably. He’s in good spirits, he’s pretty confident.”

“The news is reassuring,” Boussagol said. “We’re side-by-side with him, we’re hoping for a quick return.

“It’s a complex situation to manage: we have a process that requires us to be careful. But his return is conditional on the green light from the surgeon, that’s clear.

“As long as we don’t have that green light from the surgeon, we’re going to wait to talk about his return to play.”

Boussagol added: “His return will be gradual, first on a bike, likely from the start of next week.

“He is very motivated to come back, but his return to the field will be a gradual one. We’re not looking beyond next week.”

Boussagol refused to be drawn on whether he'd be available for a quarter-final against one of either South Africa, Ireland or Scotland.

“We are only planning on his return to the squad, the resumption of rugby,” he said. “Obviously, we hope to see him as soon as possible. I don’t think it will be against Italy.

“After that, we will move forward week on week.”