Scotland flanker Allister Hogg is keen to strengthen the ties between professional and amateur rugby by combining his role of Edinburgh talisman with a coaching position at Watsonians.

The 26-year-old captained Edinburgh in their opening Magners League victory over Cardiff on Friday, before jetting back to Murrayfield to cast a critical eye over Watsonians’ 22-16 loss to Ayr.

But Hogg, who has 48 international caps, insists that improving the links between the amateur and professional leagues is vital to the development of Scottish rugby.

“I just love being involved in rugby wherever,” said the 6ft 3in back-row powerhouse.

“It was great to start the season with victory in Cardiff – great for the players, the coaches, the supporters and the Scottish game, I think.

“But it's the same for the guys at Watsonians. We didn't win at the weekend but the team actually played better and are improving.

“I go there with my coach's hat on, looking at how I can help improve players, and I'm grateful to Watsonians for giving me the chance to see if I can coach, because you've got to think about a career after playing.

“I don't judge the players at Watsonians the same as I would in the pro game because there is a huge difference, but we're all trying to do the same thing and play to our optimum."