France have been dealt yet another setback before their blockbuster Test against the Springboks in Paris this November, with a rising star ruled out through injury.

Theo Attissogbe, who covers both wing and fullback, will undergo knee surgery and is expected to be sidelined for three to four months, his club Pau confirmed on Wednesday.

ALSO: France ace ruled out of Bok clash

The 20-year-old was one of the few bright sparks in France’s July series against the All Blacks, starting all three Tests and drawing comparisons to legendary fullback Serge Blanco in the French press. His absence adds to a growing casualty list that already includes skipper Antoine Dupont, centre Yoram Moefana and veteran prop Uini Atonio.

Toulon winger Gabin Villiere, who has not played since July because of a finger issue, recently underwent surgery for a groin problem and will not be available for Les Bleus’ end-of-year campaign.

Fabien Galthié still has options out wide, with Bordeaux-Begles duo Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud likely to start on the wings and Thomas Ramos at fullback. But losing another exciting young back three player will sting as Les Bleus prepare to host the world champions on 8 November, before matches against Fiji and Australia later in the month.

The Boks’ trip to Paris looms as one of the highlights of their end-of-year tour, and French fans will be hoping their depleted side can recover in time to match the physicality and intensity South Africa will bring.

© Agence France-Presse

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