- Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has said Finn Russell has a ‘big role’ to play
- The fly-half was passed fit after a concussion during the defeat against Ireland
- Russell is set to be named as co-captain against England in the Six Nations
Gregor Townsend says Finn Russell has a ‘big role’ to play after the Scotland fly-half was passed fit to face England.
Russell was substituted with concussion during the defeat by Ireland two weeks ago after clashing heads with team-mate Darcy Graham, who is unavailable to play at Twickenham tomorrow.
Both players have observed the criteria for returning to full contact, but owing to the seriousness of Graham’s injury he will not be risked.
‘You never know with concussions how long it’s going to take until players are fully recovered,’ said head coach Townsend.
‘Finn was symptom-free the day after the Ireland game and trained with us fully from Wednesday.
‘Darcy was symptom-free after a couple of days but we felt it wasn’t right to bring him into full contact this week.’
Gregor Townsend has praised Finn Russell saying the 32-year-old has a ‘big role to play’
The fly-half was passed fit after recovering a concussion sustained during the defeat against Ireland
It is understood that Russell with be named as co-captain for the match against England
Townsend is looking to Russell to inspire Scotland to a record fifth straight Calcutta Cup victory.
Reflecting on Scotland’s recent victories over England, Townsend said: ‘They’ve been open games and when they have been open your 10 has got a big role to play in that. (Russell) has enjoyed those games that have gone to the wire as well.’
