He was able to show off his new stripes at a press conference. Antoine Dupont returned to his position as captain and his relationship with the referees on Friday, November 5, on the eve of the match against Argentina for the autumn tour.
The 24-year-old will take over the captaincy for the three matches of the Blues in November against Argentina (the 6th at the Stade de France), Georgia (the 14th in Bordeaux) and New Zealand (the 20th at the Stade de France), in the absence of Charles Ollivon , hurt.
Captain of the XV of France, Antoine Dupont will once again be the master asset of the French selection against Argentina on Saturday night. Before the shock that will be held at the Stade de France, @toutlesport looks back on the growing influence of Toulouse in the game of the Blues. pic.twitter.com/bOks572gRn
– francetvsport (@francetvsport) November 4, 2021
How were your first days as a captain?
Antoine Dupont: It went pretty well. It’s nice to be in Blue at Marcoussis. It’s been a while. This role, it happened quite naturally. I was already a leader before, with other players. There, this additional function did not significantly change my approach. Being a captain is a lot of pride, it’s something very strong. When we see the names that have passed before, we become aware of the heritage. It motivates to be exemplary and to give the best of oneself.
How will you manage the relationship with the referees?
This is something to take into account. The relationship with the referee is an important factor, even more at the international level. I may have less experience than other captains that I will face but most of the referees, I have already met them, especially in the European Cup, and at the international level. The referee this weekend, I know him, there will be no problem … and I made efforts in English! (laughs).
You start with Ntamack and Jalibert, what’s it like to have two openers at the start?
This adds several strings to our bow, especially on the offensive side. We have two players capable of making the right decisions, of reading the spaces, of making the right choices with a very good technical quality, a very good kicking game too. And that gives us even more options to play in front and behind defense.