Flockhart gets second go

THE career of banished rugby player Gareth Flockhart has been rescued by former Scotland skipper Andy Nicol.

Scotland A breakaway forward Flockhart was expelled by Stirling County after being accused of stealing from team-mates. And he looked set to quit the sport completely until Nicol offered him a fresh start.

Nicol revealed that one of his first actions as new head coach at Currie was to invite his ex-Glasgow Warriors team-mate to train with his squad at Malleny Park.

He said: "Gareth decided he wanted to keep playing - and we decided in a democratic manner that we wanted him to play for us.

"On a personal level, I have no qualms about taking him on. Gareth has given me certain assurances which I am happy with.

"The rest of the players discussed the situation and they indicated they were comfortable having him in their ranks. What is done is done, and everyone deserves a second chance."

Flockhart won’t, however, be making his debut in a yellow and black jersey for several weeks.

Nicol explained: "He has certain business commitments over the next few weeks and we are happy to accommodate that."

Stirling County meanwhile, welcome back their former Scotland centre Ian Jardine, following his spell as player-coach at Falkirk.