National rugby academy boss Steve Gemmell insists Watsonians youngster Michael Fedo is in his thoughts after his club coach Bruce Aitchison suggested English clubs were interested in snatching the prospect.

Fedo, who was not included in specialist training or a place in the Scotland under-20 squad, starred in a 41-33 Scottish Hydro Premiership victory at Heriot's last weekend.

But Gemmell has blamed the number of back-row options in Scottish rugby on his snub from the squads.

He said: “Michael is unfortunate that there are a lot of good back-row players around and we seem to be able to breed them in Scotland at the moment.

“But he is someone I am aware of and the academy staff are attending club games every weekend so if he puts his hand up for selection he will be noticed.

“If he continues to play in the way Bruce Aitchison says he is, then he will be looked at.”