Slimani replaces injured Atonio in France squad

Paris - La Rochelle prop Uini Atonio has pulled out of France's squad for the November Tests and been replaced by Clermont's Rabah Slimani, the French rugby federation (FFR) said on Tuesday.

Atonio had been expected to join up with France's squad at their Marcoussis training base ahead of next month's matches against South Africa, Argentina and Fiji.

But after scans revealed the extent of a knee injury on Monday, Atonio was forced to pull out.

"After Sunday's game with his club and following scans on his knee, Uini Atonio is sidelined for the November tests," a FFR statement said on Twitter.

"He has been replaced in the squad by Rabah Slimani."

France play South Africa on November 10, Argentina a week later and Fiji on November 24.