Matthieu Palmier

Still in the earliest chapters of his career, Matthieu Palmier is a young flanker on the books of ASM Clermont Auvergne. Born on 25 April 2008, he is very much a prospect for the future, developing his game within the structures of one of the Top 14's most storied clubs. Palmier's profile is that of an energetic openside in the making: industrious at the breakdown, willing in the tackle and busy in support of his ball-carriers. As with most players at his stage, his strengths lie in raw attributes — work rate, physical commitment and a nose for the contest area — that the Clermont academy will look to refine over the coming seasons. He has yet to amass a significant body of senior rugby, and his story is one of potential rather than established achievement. For now, Palmier represents part of the next generation coming through at Clermont, a back-row hopeful learning his trade and aiming to translate youthful promise into a foothold in the senior reckoning.