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Roberts set for France encounter

Roberts set for France encounter

Wales centre Jamie Roberts says he would relish a midfield partnership with George North.

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Warren Gatland’s men take on France at the Millennium Stadium this Friday and with Scott Williams, Jonathan Davies and Ashley Beck all ruled out injured, Roberts is in need of a new centre partner.

North moved from wing to centre in the defeat to Ireland in Dublin two weeks ago and is a candidate to start in the midfield against Philippe Saint Andre’s side.

“George is a fantastic player – his physical attributes, from a rugby perspective, are incredible,” said Racing Metro man Roberts.

“He is a Shane Williams but at 17 stone. His turn of pace and agility for a man that big is frightening.

“Everybody can see the damage he does and he is truly a world class talent.”

After the 26-3 loss in Dublin, Roberts and the rest of the Wales squad are determined to bounce back against a French side who have defeated both England and in Italy so far.

“We came up short against Ireland and the players know it was unacceptable,” said Roberts.

“The only people who can change what happened are us. It is important the focus is there and everything is geared towards an emotionally charged 80 minutes on Friday night.

“We know when we come up against the French we are coming up a side which has won two from two.

“They are a team which can play with flair, but also a physical game with their big carriers getting into the game.

“Their set piece is usually very good and we cannot afford to turn up like we did out in Dublin.

“I suppose the measure of a man is how you respond and that certainly rings very true this week.

“Everything has to go into a massive 80 minutes on Friday night.”

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