Glasgow’s Finn Russell has made a “remarkable recovery” from a serious head injury suffered against Connacht last season and his coach Gregor Townsend has praised the treatment the out-half and his family received in the aftermath.
The 23-year-old collided with team-mate Zander Fagerson at the start of their Pro12 semi-final defeat at the Sportsground last May and was treated on the pitch before being brought to hospital in Galway.
He was subsequently transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin for assessment before returning home.
The 19-cap Scotland international is back in training and Townsend, speaking at the launch of the Guinness Pro12 season at the Aviva Stadium today, was eager to mention those who helped Russell and his family.
“The reaction from the people in Ireland was tremendous, especially Connacht and the Irish Rugby Union,” Townsend told RTÉ Sport.
“We had people going out of their way to help. [Recently retired Connacht centre] Dave McSharry’s parents own a hotel and they put Finn’s mum and dad up in the best suite when he was in hospital.
“[Ex-Connacht out-half] AJ MacGinty’s parents took out Finn’s parents for a meal; lots of people helping out from the medical side, coaches getting in touch.
“We had people going out of their way to help"
“It was really good and Finn and his family really appreciate that.
“He’s had a remarkable recovery because it was a serious injury, we’re not getting away from that, but he’s training.
“He’s not able to do contact just yet but he wants to so that’s a good sign and he’s looking in good shape but it won’t be until a few weeks that we introduce contact.
“We’re delighted with the medical care he got and his recovery means that he’ll play a big part this season.”
Former Scotland international Townsend is due to take over the reins of the national side from Vern Cotter at the end of this season.
He added: “Obviously, it’s on the horizon. To get that offer over the summer was an incredible honour and I’m very grateful for that opportunity.
“I’ll be doing all I can to make the most of it but until then we’ve got a lot of work to do at Glasgow.”
