Joe van Niekerk, former Lions, Stormer and Springbok loose forward have been handed the captaincy for the relegation haunted French club Toulon.

“The big-spenders dropped into the relegation zone for the first time this season due to a 32-5 loss at the hands of Clermont last week, and they have now called on Van Niekerk’s expertise to get them out of their rut.

Van Niekerk has been the standout performer for Toulon since his arrival in September, but the club seems to have bigger problems than simply the leadership of the team. Three players – flank Jerry Collins, centre Mafileo Kefu, and hooker Phillip Fitzgerald – have all led the team with little success this season.

Toulon, who are currently 13th, face 6th-placed Brive away this weekend.“

Source: keo.co.za