Edinburgh skipper Mike Blair insists Scottish clubs are ready to make their mark in the Heineken Cup.

Edinburgh are the only Scottish team to have reached the quarter-finals of the competition when were beaten by French side Tolouse in 2004.

Blair’s side currently lie top of the Magners League having won three of their opening four matches, while Glasgow Warriors are seventh.

And the British Lion insists the two clubs are ready to make their mark in Europe this season.

“Scottish teams have gained a lot more respect from opposition sides in the Heineken Cup, whether they be from France, England, Italy, Ireland or Wales,” said Blair.

“They respect the developments and progress we have made. Teams are starting to sit up and take notice of what we’re doing.

“I don’t want to harp on too much about the Glasgow win in Toulouse last season but that was one of the key things that made Europe realise Scottish teams can play a bit.”