Philippe Saint-Andre angry with players after France's Six Nations loss to Wales

Philippe Saint-Andre: Angry with France players after defeat

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre described his team as "the Father Christmas of international rugby" for giving away so many points following the 20-13 Six Nations Championship defeat to Wales.

France suffered a fourth-consecutive tournament loss to Wales to follow a 15-8 opening win over Scotland and 18-11 loss against Ireland.              

"International rugby is about combat, humility. But above all it's a collective sport. We don't need starlets," said Saint-Andre.

"In rugby, the team is the star and we need champions. Yesterday, I didn't see any champions, or not many.

"I only want players who are ready to go to the end of the world. If anyone thinks that international rugby is too difficult, then they have my telephone number. They can call me and I'll take someone else. I'll even take a 20-year-old lad who's never played in the Top 14 before."

We're the Father Christmas of international rugby and that's what I told the players

Philippe Saint-Andre

Saint-Andre, who became France coach after the 2011 World Cup, said he is tired of defending his players.

"I've covered and supported them for three years," he added. "At some stage you need to know how to win games at the highest level. The French jersey should not only be something you're proud of but also something that enables you to surpass yourself. You need to be a gladiator.

"We have guys who started playing three years ago and now have 30 caps. It's time to stop hiding.

"At some point you have to ask the right questions. We're at our level, that's the truth. It takes the Welsh 30 seconds to score three points and it takes us four minutes.

"We're the Father Christmas of international rugby and that's what I told the players."

But Saint-Andre ruled out resigning from his role.

"I've never abandoned ship, whether as a player, as a captain or as a manager," he said. "I've been given a role - to prepare this team for the World Cup. I'll fight every day to do that."

France finish their Six Nations campaign with away matches against Italy and England.