Former France international flanker Serge Betsen has admitted that Les Bleus face a tough Six Nations opener against Scotland.

France get their campaign underway on Saturday when they welcome the Scots to Paris.

Scotland have experienced an upturn in fortunes under new coach Vern Cotter, and Betsen believes that they will provide stiff opposition for the French this weekend.

"The Scotland game scares me a little bit," the 40-year-old is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "We've seen since Vern Cotter took over at Scotland that they seem to be playing really well, particularly in November.

"He also knows French rugby after coaching Clermont for 10 years. My concern is how we are going to cope with that challenge because last year in Scotland we only won in the last minute, so we need to be careful."

Scotland finished in fourth place at the end of last year's tournament, winning three and losing two of their five games.