Wallabies flyhalf Quade Cooper has been at the receiving end of merciless criticism from Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal.

While criticising All Black recruits Ma'a Nonu and Tom Taylor, Boudjellal saved a rather demeaning retort in reference to the impression Cooper has made since joining the European champions as a replacement for Jonny Wilkinson.

‘It's difficult to go from foie gras to pâté,’ Boudjellal told the French publication Quinze Mondial, effectively meaning Wilkinson is a rich man's delicacy and Cooper a poor man's standard fare.

‘For now, Cooper is not what I was hoping for. But we have to also give him time,’ Boudjellal added. ‘Right now if I say that I'm not happy with our stars, it's only because we expect a lot.’

Last Sunday, Toulon opted to bring on French flyhalf Fred Michalak at half-time in their Champions Cup clash against Bath, with a last-minute penalty sparing them blushes in front of their home fans.

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