Achilles surgery for Clerc

Toulon have suffered an injury setback after experienced wing Vincent Clerc was ruled out until the end of the year due to an operation.

35-year-old Clerc, who joined the club from Top 14 rivals Toulouse during the off-season, has had an operation on his right Achilles tendon.

Toulon confirmed the news as he suffered the injury in pre-season, joining Duane Vermeulen, Matt Giteau and Juan Smith on the sidelines.