The playing future of an Argentine legend is in doubt. Juan Martín Fernández Lobbe was injured playing fro Toulon against Clermont on the weekend. He was forced-off in the 27th minute with Jean Monribot being his replacement.
As per procedure Fernández Lobbe underwent medical exams to determine the extent of his injury. The diagnosis is not promising. Team Manager Fabien Galthié stated that the Argentine flanker has suffered a broken thumb.
Toulon are yet to publish information on the injury. Such an injury usually requires six-weeks out of rugby. This would see him missing the Champions Cup Final should Toulon make it that far.
In a best case scenario Fernández Lobbe would return in mid May, by which time the Top 14 regular season will have ended. The barrage play-off’s are scheduled for the weekend of May 18-19. The Semi Finals and Final will be played over the following weekends.
Being fit for one last shot at a title is now the likely outcome for Corcho. The 36-year-old already has a Top 14 title to his name. He was a French champion in 2014. With Toulon the Argentine legend also has three European titles, winning in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
Having appeared in two Rugby World Cup Semi Finals, Fernández Lobbe is among the most accomplished players of his generation. He is among the best flankers to have ever played for Argentina. As a Puma he earned 71 caps.