Rugby: Frustrated Macleod aims for comeback

Scott Macleod has targeted a swift return to rugby action next Friday after missing Edinburgh's opening pre-season clash at Bath tomorrow.

And, stakes have suddenly become dramatically higher for the 31-year-old starting with the 27 August home friendly with London Irish after it emerged that his second row rival, Al Kellock, was almost certain to miss the Autumn Test series after undergoing knee surgery.

In Scotland's last match, against Argentina when a 2-0 tour Test series was clinched, Macleod replaced Kellock with 14 minutes remaining and was credited with crucial contributions in those nerve-jangling later stages. It was his first Test appearance for two years.

Despite that Macleod takes nothing for granted about quickly adding to his 22 caps but admits waving club-mates off to Bath this weekend while he rests a rib knock is frustrating.

"I hurt a rib but I've been seen by a doctor and it is not as bad as originally thought.

"Hopefully I'll be back next week against London Irish," said Macleod.

Also extremely doubtful for the Autumn Tests when New Zealand, South Africa and Samoa have to be confronted is scrum half Chris Cusiter who also requires an operation on a knee problem.