Sunday 2 November 2014 11:56, UK
Scott Spedding has been called up by France for the first time ahead of their November Tests against Fiji, Australia and Argentina.
The 28-year-old South African-born full-back replaces the injured Brice Dulin in the squad and was highly emotional after hearing the news.
"My first thought was for my family. I am thinking about my father in particular," said Spedding.
"My father was always there for me. This is thanks to my parents because they made huge sacrifices for me. This is an unbelievable moment.
"It has been a long road to arrive at this. It is a huge moment in my life. It was always a dream for me but I never thought it would happen. I hope it is just the beginning. I already know the 'Marseillaise' I am French.
"Each time a squad was announced since 2011 when I was eligible for selection and I wasn't in it I lost hope, although I kept the dream alive in a small locker in my head.
"I was seeing the years advance, even if I still have a few ahead of me in terms of playing.”
Spedding could well start against Fiji next weekend as his main rival for the position Maxime Medard is also struggling to be fit having suffered a groin injury in Toulouse's Top 14 win over Lyon on Saturday.
