The 22-year-old fly-half takes responsibility for his part in Stade Francais Paris’ below-par performances this season and admitted his confidence has taken a knock.

He told Rugby World magazine: “I haven’t been up to the task this season. I’ve been making too many mistakes and I haven’t built up my confidence in the way I’d have wanted. That’s entirely down to me.”

Leo has been involved with France’s youth teams since he was 16 so had a “very emotional year” when he made his senior debut last year.

He said: “It was a very emotional year, with my first cap and the tour over the summer.

“There were wins, and one defeat in Argentina, but I’ve gained a lot of experience.

“Every time I’ve been with the French team, I’ve grown as a player.”

But the sportsman won’t be “expecting” to play for France in the Six Nations, though he’d relish the opportunity.

He said: “The desire will be the same as last year. I need to be performing well week in, week out before I can start thinking about playing in the Six Nations again.

“If I do get called up, I know there’s stiff competition in my position and that others are emerging, so I’ll need to be playing at a high level.

“That’s how I’m looking at the tournament, it’s not as though I’m expecting to be playing.”