The French love to see a bit of passion, displayed for the world to see.
It is never enjoyable to feel the pull of the shepherd’s hook in a big game. Worse, still, when it arrives after only 46 minutes of a game.
Frederick Michalak was called ashore six minutes after the break in Toulon’s 25-20 win over Leinster, on Sunday. His reaction was one of bemused outrage.
Michalak headed straight for the showers and was in his team suit, on the bench, well in time for the match to drift towards extra time.
Asked about the demonstrative Michalak and his muttering stroll off the Stade Vélodrome pitch, Toulon coach Bernard Laporte said he was not concerned in the slightest. The pair did have ‘a frank discussion’ after the game but Laporte says differences have since been put aside.
Laporte said, ‘Frederick was not having a great day. His knee was a little sore knee, but it was also a tactical choice… We needed a scraper, someone carrying balls and someone effective in tackles. That’s why Rudi Wulf came in.’
He added, ‘I do not get angry with my players. Whether they are upset, it’s normal, they have character. They are not ghosts.
‘I prefer a player who is not happy to get substituted than one that would come to me saying, “This is nice. Can I come off earlier next time?” When you’re a manager of a club. you’re not there to punish.’
Laporte will give Michalak the chance to redeem himself against La Rochelle in this weekend’s Top 14. With Quade Cooper on his way to the south of France next season, the out-half needs all the good performances he can muster.
Hat-tip: Rugbyrama
