Vernon shocked by call-up

Vernon: Suprise call-up

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Glasgow flanker Richie Vernon admits his call-up to the Scotland squad for the clash against Fiji came as a surprise.

The 22-year-old, who ended last season with a broken foot, landed a place in new coach Andy Robinson's 32-man squad after impressing with his recent form.

Vernon is one of three uncapped players selected by Robinson, alongside Edinburgh flanker Alan MacDonald and Worcester centre Alex Grove.

The flanker shone for Scotland A during this summer's IRB Nations Cup triumph in Romania, scoring a try against France A in front of the recently-appointed coach.

Vernon admits it was a trip he was not expecting to be part of after being forced to miss the second half of last season through injury.

"I went away for a sevens event before the Sevens World Cup and I broke my foot and that put me out for the rest of the season," Vernon said.

"I got a call-up to the Scotland side for the Nations Cup and was just delighted to get a chance there.

Vital

"It was a great chance to be there and show what I could do, and luckily enough I managed to perform at the top of my game."

There were unexpected omissions for experienced Edinburgh flanker Allister Hogg and Glasgow star Dan Parks, who had been widely tipped for a recall.

Parks' absence leaves Scotland with only one recognised fly-half in Phil Godman, so Chris Paterson will be expected to stand in.

Robinson has told Parks, Hogg and a number of other omitted players that they can force their way into his plans for the second and third autumn internationals against Australia and Argentina, respectively.

"Our focus has got to be on that first game, and it's vital we get a very good start," said Robinson. "That's the key part of this.

"We then have an A game against Tonga and the game against Australia after that.

"But, for us, let's get that first game under our belts."