FINN RUSSELL will be involved in Scotland’s preparations for their Six Nations clash with France this weekend, but he will not play any part on the pitch for the remainder of the tournament.
However, there are indications that Russell could be back in the international set-up as soon as this summer.
The fly-half has been omitted from Scotland's 37-man squad for next Sunday's game but Herald Sport understands the Racing 92 player will take part in a coaches meeting by way of conference call in order to aid Gregor Townsend’s build-up for the visit of France.
This development is an indication that relations are improving between player and coach following the bust-up that saw Russell leave the national side’s camp five weeks ago, ahead of Scotland’s opening Six Nations fixture against Ireland.
Russell will almost certainly also not be a part of the squad which will face Wales only six days after the France game, with both parties concluding this was not the right time for the player to rejoin the squad.
However, the fact that Russell is willing to be involved the side’s preparations for the France game, and that Townsend is keen to accept his help, is a sign there has been some progress between the pair, who had what has been described as a ‘positive’ conversation over the phone last week.
Russell's knowledge of the French side is as good as anyone's, with Townsend keen to pick his brains on Scotland's opposition next weekend bearing in mind the knowledge of the French players Russell has garnered in the year-and-a-half he has played for Racing 92.
Russell continued his good run of form at the weekend, scoring an intercept try in Racing's 49-0 home victory over La Rochelle.
Herald Sport also understands that there is a desire from both sides to ensure Russell is a part of Scotland’s tour to South Africa this summer, with the player keen to be included in the squad whether Townsend remains as head coach of Scotland or not.
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