FINN Russell has been hailed as one of the best fly-halves in the world after returning to the Glasgow side for Dave Rennie’s first game at Scotstoun.
Russell was given an extended rest before the start of the season following a busy summer which saw him travel to Australia with the national set-up before joining the Lions squad as a late call-up in New Zealand.
However he has been named in Rennie’s side to face Ospreys in the Guinness Pro14 in today’s match at Scotstoun.
Peter Horne started last week’s 18-12 win over Connacht at 10, but has been shifted to make room for Russell and Rennie is expecting big things from the playmaker.
“Finn is a special player,” he said. “He’s excited and has been working really hard.
“I’ve coached some pretty good 10s around the world and I think Finn could be as good as anyone,” the New Zealander added.
“I’m looking forward to seeing him run the ship.”
Rennie’s arrival in Scotland has brought a wave of optimism to Scotstoun given his success in his native New Zealand, and he is looking forward to his first game in Glasgow.
“Being in charge of my first home game will be really special. I’ve heard a lot about it, we’ve got great support here and I’m expecting the supporters to be really vocal,” he said.
Back-row forward Callum Gibbins will make his debut against the Welsh outfit after joining from Super Rugby side Hurricanes.
“Callum is in fantastic nick,” said Rennie. “I know the boys here are loving him, he’s a leader and has a fantastic work ethic.
“He’ll be really physical on the weekend – I know how pumped he is.
“It’s not easy to leave New Zealand but he’s totally committed and the fans will love him, and his mullet.”
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