Townsend aims to help young Scots

Gregor Townsend has told Scotland coach Matt Williams he is willing to pass on his experience and knowledge to those youngsters who have forced his early international retirement.

The Borders stand-off, Scotland’s most capped player, was one of a number of men to have stepped down from the top stage after discussions with the new coach.

Williams has decided to put his faith in youth, having named 14 uncapped players for his 44-man training squad. But he still believes they can benefit from the veteran’s wealth of knowledge.

And Townsend said: “I feel very lucky and privileged to have had the opportunities I have had in playing for Scotland.

“It is now time for the young boys to come into the side especially now since there’s no longer an A team.

“My best memories probably surround the 1999 Five Nations, not necessarily the fact that we won or that I managed to score a try in every game, more so the way the team performed and really came together over the tournament.

“Over the last few years I’ve really been building up my knowledge of the game. I want to give what I’ve learned back into the game.

“I’ll see what happens over the next few months as to what I’ll do next, but at the moment, I’m putting everything into playing for the Borders and I’m still looking to improve my game.”

James McLaren was another who decided to stand aside to allow the new generation time to prepare for the 2004 RBS 6 Nations Championship.

“I’m looking forward to enjoying my club rugby here in France and I hope that Scotland go well with the young boys they’re bringing in,” said the Castres centre.

“I’m only just 31, so I’m not really ready for hanging up my boots just yet.

“I’m looking to maybe do a bit of coaching here and I’m working on a new fashion label just now so I can devote some more time to that.”

Glenn Metcalfe, who also announced he was stepping down, added: “I’d spoken with Hugh Campbell before the World Cup and mentioned I’d really like to spend some more time concentrating on playing and helping develop some of the younger players at Glasgow.

“I’ll really miss playing for Scotland and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me during my international career.”

Williams, who replaced Ian McGeechan as coach, paid tribute to them, as well as Martin Leslie, Kenny Logan and Bryan Redpath who also retired.

He said: “These guys have all been great servants to Scotland.

“I’ve talked with them all and emphasised that they all still have valuable information and insights to the Scottish game and that their knowledge of and passion for rugby in Scotland will not be lost.”