France centre Gabrielle Vernier has been ruled out of the remainder of the Women’s Six Nations with a shoulder injury.

Vernier was forced off in the 48th minute of France’s 38-7 victory against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday as she won her 60th cap.

The 28-year-old will miss Saturday’s game with Ireland, a trip to Scotland and a potential Grand Slam decider against England on 17 May.

France head coach Francois Ratier has called up 18-year-old Aelig Tregouet to replace Vernier in the squad.

Toulouse’s Tregouet has played sevens for France but has not been capped at senior level in the 15-a-side game by her country.

Vernier’s injury is a blow to France, who have already lost key centre Joanna Grisez to a knee ligament injury.

France won their opening two matches against Italy and Wales to sit second in the table behind world champions England.

They welcome Ireland, who they beat in the World Cup quarter-finals, to Clermont on Saturday in their third match of this year’s tournament.