Alasdair Strokosch: Could return in the Six Nations

Scotland's Alasdair Strokosch could still play some part in the RBS 6 Nations despite confirmation he suffered a fractured bone near his eye.

Flanker Strokosch will be out for four weeks, meaning he will definitely miss the visit of Ireland on February 24 after already being ruled out of Saturday's clash against Italy.

But the Perpignan forward appears to have a chance of facing Wales on March 9 and France the following weekend.

Scotland team doctor James Robson said: "Alasdair was seen by a specialist at the Spire Murrayfield Hospital this week and the injury was diagnosed as a fracture of the orbital floor (the area around the eye).

"Alasdair is returning to his club in France and will be in their care.

"If he has no complications he should be available to return to action in four weeks' time."

Another player injured in the 38-18 defeat at Twickenham, Dougie Hall, has lost his battle to make the bench when Italy visit Murrayfield this weekend.

The hooker has a mild knee strain and his provisional place among the replacements will be taken by his Glasgow team-mate, Pat MacArthur, who will take his spot in a Scotland match day squad for the first time.

MacArthur, 25, said: "It's a huge honour to have the chance to play for my country.

"It's something I've dreamed about since I started playing mini rugby at Ayr and aimed for since I became a professional with Glasgow Warriors."