Clean out.

France host Ireland in their Six Nations opener in just five weeks, but preparations have just taken an almighty hit with the news that head coach Guy Noves has been sacked.

Former Italy boss Jacques Brunel will now take charge of their 2018 Six Nations campaign and beyond, after Noves guided them to just seven wins from 21 games during his two-year spell in charge.

France have never sacked a coach midway through his contract as long as the game as been professional, which shows just how bad things have gotten under Noves.

Brunel left his role with Top 14 side Bordeaux-Begles to take up the position, with his contract taking him through to the 2019 World Cup.

France host Ireland in Paris on Saturday, 3 February.