Attoub back in France reckoning

Stade Francais prop David Attoub has been recalled to the France squad for the RBS 6 Nations opener against Italy, with uncapped duo Yoann Maestri and Wesley Fofana also included for the February 4 encounter.

Attoub was not part of the initial 30-man group named earlier this month by new coach Philippe Saint-Andre, but has been drafted in due to Luc Ducalcon's lack of match fitness.

The 30-year-old, who received a 70-week ban for an eye-gouging incident during a Heineken Cup match against Ulster in December 2009, has not played for his country since making his debut against Romania in June 2006.