OWENS FEARS THE FRENCH WILL BE FIGHTING FOR JOBS

WALES hooker Ken Owens expects France to be ‘playing for contracts’ after their camp was rocked by the news that Racing 92 and Stade Francais are planning to merge.

Players were informed of the talks by text message on Tuesday morning, before walking out of the team hotel against management wishes for an emergency meeting in Paris.

A list of ‘transferable players’ has reportedly been sent around Top 14 clubs, leaving Les Bleus’ stars facing unemployment if the ‘Super Club’ goes ahead.

‘We’ll see what sort of mindset the players have,’ said Owens. ‘It must be a difficult time for them. Some could be playing for contracts, so there is all sorts of motivation.

‘ That’s professional sport. Things are dictated by finances. Owners and directors make decisions for the financial benefit of the club, and as players, you have got to be able to understand that. All you can do is keep playing well and try to prove your worth.’

French centre Jonathan Danty said: ‘In my bedroom, at around 11 o’clock, I read about it on my phone. My first reaction was to ask if it was a joke. After that we had a meeting between players from the two clubs.

‘It was unthinkable that such a thing should happen. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, bizarre. We’ve always been told we’re the club’s future, that if we leave, the club dies. And then we find out what’s been done behind our backs.’

Wales are out of the title race following defeats by England and Scotland, but could still secure fourth place in the world rankings ahead of May’s World Cup draw. That would ensure they avoid England, New Zealand and Australia.