Chris Paterson hopes to be fit for tour

CHRIS Paterson hopes to prove his fitness in time to be considered for a place on Scotland's summer tour to Argentina. The Edinburgh utility back is currently making his way back from a serious kidney injury sustained during the game against Wales in which he won his 100th cap, and is doing everything in his power to make sure he wins a 101st as soon as possible.

• A well-looking Chris Paterson, left, and Scotland team-mate Ross Ford launch the limited edition Scott's Porage Oats tin range. Picture: Jane Barlow

"I would like to be fit for then," he said when asked about the close-season tour. "Whether there would be an opportunity to play rugby to be match fit, I don't know.

"All these things, I think, are open at the moment. I would like to be considered for playing and getting back playing as soon as possible. (Scotland coach] Andy Robinson's got so much respect for his medical staff and I suppose the call lies with them."

Scotland back Thom Evans sustained serious spinal damage in the February match in the Millennium Stadium. Having initially been kept on separate floors in the same Cardiff hospital, the two players were able to keep in touch.

"Thom was in the bed almost directly below me. We kept in touch and we were both quite glad in many ways to have each other there."

Paterson is ten weeks into his recovery now, and just weeks away from resuming full training. Evans has longer to go, but recently revealed his intention to resume playing.

"Thom's doing really well. He's back on his feet and has got a big smile on his face, which is brilliant to see," Paterson added. "We're both eager to get up on our feet and do what we can."