Alex Dunbar makes Glasgow Warriors return against Northampton

Alex Dunbar returns from a hamstring injury. Picture: Ian Rutherford

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SCOTLAND centre Alex Dunbar returns and Sam Johnson will make his first start in a new-look midfield partnership when Glasgow face Northampton in Sunday's crunch European Champions Cup Pool 3 match at Franklin's Gardens.

Dunbar has recovered from a hamstring injury and is partnered by the Australian which allows Finn Russell, who filled in at inside centre at Racing 92 last weekend, to revert back to stand-off. Ali Price keeps his place at scrum-half and Duncan Weir drops to the bench.

Lee Jones replaces Taqele Naiyaravoro on the right wing, with Sean Lamont continuing on the opposite flank.

Compared to the backline, the pack has a more familiar look for what is a must-win clash at the Aviva Premiership side, who beat Glasgow 26-15 at Scotstoun in what was the Guinness Pro12 champions’ first match of the campaign.

Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend said: “We were disappointed to lose last weekend’s game in Paris, but Sunday is a new challenge for us and we’re looking forward to the game at Franklin’s Gardens.

“It will be a great atmosphere in a fantastic rugby stadium, and we’re well aware of the challenge we face in our penultimate pool match.

“We’ve been boosted by the return of Alex Dunbar and we’re looking forward to seeing Sam Johnson make his first start for the club.”

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