The South African has replaced Jiuta Wainiqolo in the starting XV amid two changes to the side for their semi-final triumph against Saracens a fortnight ago, the other alteration seeing Julien Heriteau come in for Mathieu Smaili.

Azéma explained that Kolbe, who has recovered from a thumb injury, will provide much-needed experience in the dressing room and on the pitch at Stade Vélodrome.

“It was difficult for me to make the team this week,” he admitted. “All the boys are there. Beyond Cheslin Kolbe's talent, his temperament is important to the team.

“He is a big competitor, a natural leader. It's good to have boys like that in the locker room. Our strength comes from there.”

Azéma added that Toulon are eager to get stuck into tonight’s match and put on a show for their supporters, who are expected in vast numbers in Marseille.

However, he asserted that his team will not be weighed down by expectations: “We feel that there is fervour inside and outside the dressing room.

“We feel that the Toulon [fans] have identified with the team again. It's good to feel them around us.

“I hope we can still commune with them on Friday night. We do not ask ourselves any questions. There is no additional pressure.

“We must stay on our bases, our commitment, keep the same passion to continue our adventure.”

Captain Charles Ollivon also hailed the impact of the Toulon supporters but warned that his team must keep their composure as they bid to lift the Challenge Cup for the first time.

“It's a pleasure for all of us, the team, the staff, the fans to play in Marseille. It's just happiness. You have to use it and enjoy those moments.

“Playing in such a beautiful stadium is not every weekend. We are the happiest to have the support of our [fans] who will be present.

“We will try to rely on our supporters, but the game will be on the field. It's up to us to be serious and diligent. We will try to build on our strengths.

“There is a lot of excitement in our group. Nothing should be changed. We must keep the carelessness of the young, the confidence of the older ones, this simplicity that characterizes our dressing room.

“It's an opportunity for the group that has been there for a little while to play a big game.”

The EPCR Challenge Cup final kicks off at 20:00 (UK & Irish time) tonight and will be available to watch on BT Sport, beIN SPORTS, France 4 and Sky Italia.

RC Toulon head coach Franck Azéma says Cheslin Kolbe’s leadership credentials were a big factor in his decision to bring in the wing for tonight’s EPCR Challenge Cup final in Marseille.