Stuart Hogg is determined to come back stronger than ever after Scotland’s plans for the autumn internationals suffered a major blow with confirmation he will be out for ten to 12 weeks.
The full-back, who plays for Glasgow Warriors, sustained an ankle injury in his team’s win over Munster earlier this month and has since undergone surgery.
The 26-year-old underwent ankle surgery at BMI Ross Hall Hospital on Thursday, which will likely see him sit out all four of Scotland’s November internationals against Wales, Fiji, South Africa and Argentina.
However, the 62-time capped international is expected to be fit in time to represent Scotland at the 2019 Six Nations.
On his injury, Hogg said: “I’m gutted to be missing some important games for Glasgow Warriors and Scotland over the next few months.
“My focus just now is working hard and getting fit, so I can play my part in what is a long season.
“I’d like to thank the medical staff at Glasgow Warriors and BMI Ross Hall Hospital for all their care and support.”
Hogg had travelled with the Warriors squad for their Guinness PRO14 fixtures against the Cheetahs and Southern Kings this week, but he was forced to return to Scotland as his injury worsened.
Glasgow Warriors coach Dave Rennie said: “He didn’t train over here as it often takes a few days for the swelling to go down and he returned home when we realised it was more serious than we thought.
“It’s frustrating for him. He got himself in extremely good nick for the start of the season and was arguably one of the best players on the park in the opening two games.
“But it’s a long old season, he’s a resilient man and we’re looking forward to seeing him back out there soon.”
Hogg is a two-time Six Nations Player of the Tournament winner (2016 & 2017) – the first Scottish player to receive the award and only the second player to ever win it in consecutive years.
Scotland will open their 2019 Six Nations campaign against Italy on Saturday 2 February at BT Murrayfield.
