FORMER Wales and Llanelli prop Ricky Evans has decided to sue French star Olivier Merle after sustaining horrific injuries following a head butting incident in a Five Nations clash nearly two years ago.

Evans, who has served a writ in the French High Court, is claiming damages for the injuries he received, loss of earnings and medical expenses.

The 36 year old suffered a double fracture of his leg, ligament damage in his left ankle and a fracture of his nose during the match on January 23rd, 1995 at Parc des Princes.

Evans, whose ankle was treated with the insertion of a screw and plate, returned to the sport four and a half months later, missing three internationals.

Although he regained his place in the World Cup side for the match against New Zealand, the hard South African grounds aggravated his ankle and he then needed further surgery, forcing him to miss the first half of the following season. He has since been unable to reclaim his international place.

Merle was dropped from the French side for the two subsequent internationals, but remains a member of their current team.