Scotland's walking wounded
Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:05
Scotland fullback Chris Paterson will require further assessment of his facial injury before he can be considered for selection for Saturday’s international against Canada in Aberdeen.
Cap and points record holder Paterson had to retire in the early stages of yesterday’s agonising 10-14 loss to South Africa at Murrayfield after sustaining a blow to his left cheek.
Scotland team doctor James Robson said today: “Chris was seen by a specialist facial consultant, Ed Larkins at the Spire Murrayfield hospital last night, where he had preliminary investigations to the blow he took to his left cheek.
“These initial investigations have indicated that no surgery will be required. Chris will undergo further assessment on Wednesday (allowing the swelling to recede) to exclude a possible hairline fracture.”
The other main concern from yesterday’s extensive casualty bulletin was wing Thom Evans who had extensive bruising to his left leg and right arm.
Dr Robson noted that flyhalf Phil Godman had required stitches in two separate cuts to his forehead; No 8 Allister Hogg had nine stitches inserted in a cut above his right eye; and that Jason White may be an initial absentee when training resumes tomorrow on account of a blow he took to his neck.
A number of other players had strains, bumps and bruises associated with a match of yesterday’s magnitude but none is regarded as a major concern at this stage.
With thanks to Scottish Rugby.
