Post by : Rameen Ariff

EDINBURGH: Scotland prop Zander Fagerson is close to making his much-anticipated return to international rugby, rejoining full training this week ahead of Sunday’s test against Argentina.

The 29-year-old, sidelined since early April due to calf and knee injuries, missed the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia earlier this year. His absence has been felt in Scotland’s front row, and his return would be a major boost for coach Gregor Townsend’s side as they look to bounce back from a narrow loss to New Zealand at Murrayfield last weekend.

While Fagerson was not ready to feature against the All Blacks, scrum coach Pieter de Villiers confirmed the tighthead prop has been training well and could play either this Sunday or in Scotland’s final November international against Tonga on November 23.

“We’re positive that he will make an appearance for us in this tournament at some stage, whether it be this match or the next,” De Villiers said.

The final call on Fagerson’s inclusion will be made after Thursday’s training session, ahead of the official squad announcement on Friday.

Meanwhile, fly-half Finn Russell has also returned to full fitness after enduring knee and ankle knocks during the New Zealand match. The playmaker, who required on-field treatment twice before being substituted late in the second half, has resumed full training and is expected to feature against Argentina.

“Finn has been training fully as well, so we’re optimistic for him to be available,” De Villiers added.

Scotland will look to end their autumn campaign on a high, with both experience and depth returning to the squad at a crucial stage. A fit Fagerson and Russell could significantly strengthen the team’s chances against a powerful Argentine pack.

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