Scotland’s defeat in Cardiff last Saturday left centre Peter Horne in such shock he felt compelled to consult the sports psychologist who works with the squad.

Horne said the hardest thing about the 34-7 result was the sense that the players had let down friends, family and fans. The Glasgow Warrior coped by spending time talking to Damian Hughes. Those sessions provided a catharsis of sorts, yet Horne knows only victory over France will allow the squad to move on from the catastrophe of Cardiff.

“After the game we were stung by how poor we were,” said Horne, who came off the bench to score Scotland’s only try. “We were all gutted. It’s not one where you could just forget it. Playing for your country, you’re desperate to do well for yourself, your family, the fans. There was a big expectation from everyone inside and outside the group. We felt we blew a big opportunity and it has been a tough one to take.

“Feeling sorry for yourself doesn’t solve anything, and it becomes counter-productive to mope around all week. That’s why you have the reviews and honesty sessions, and we also have Damian working with us. He will go around a few of the guys and have a chat, and quite a lot of the boys are open to that. For me, it’s nice to chat to ­Damian, he’s a good lad.”