Sylvain Marconnet back in France squad

The 34-year-old Marconnet has 80 international caps, but played only one Six Nations match last year - the 33-10 home win over Ireland. His presence will give France coach Marc Lievremont added toughness, experience and leadership.

"I have faith in him, his competitive spirit, his experience, his versatility," Lievremont said. "He may not be the Sylvain Marconnet of 10 years ago but I preferred him to less experienced guys."

Bastareaud played all of last year's Six Nations games, but Lievremont said: "There are better (players) today at outside center than Mathieu Bastareaud."

David Marty was preferred to Florian Fritz at centre and scrum half Julien Dupuy was also left out. But Lievremont insists they could yet return before he names his squad for the World Cup later this year.

France won the Grand Slam last year, but ended the season with a stinging 59-16 home loss to Australia.

Scotland visit the Stade de France on 5 February before France travel to play Ireland.

The Australia loss - where France capitulated after being level 13-13 at half-time - has made Lievremont reassess his own leadership skills.

He said: "The highest level often comes down to small details that can have a dramatic importance when you're confronted with the very, very high level."

Captain Thierry Dusautoir has also pledged to improve his communication skills after France failed to show a united front after the Australia match.