Phil Godman out for six months
Scotland fly half Phil Godman is set to spend six months in the treatment room after picking up an injury in training.
The 28-year-old Edinburgh player tore his anterior cruciate ligament earlier in the week. Both Scotland and Edinburgh has confirmed the injury after an MRI scan and Godman could now miss the 2011 Six Nations.
"Phil sustained the injury in non-contact training. His rehabilitation starts now.
He will have to undergo surgery in due course to repair the knee ligaments,"
Scotland team doctor James Robson said.
This is a huge blow for Scotland and Edinburgh because Godman is such an influential player. The temptation to rush him back has to be resisted because this could make
the injury worse.
Influential player
Godman is the best dead ball kicker in Scotland. He takes the majority of penalties and conversions for club and country. This is important because the kicker can keep
a side within touching distance of the opposition. He also kicks the ball long when his side is under pressure, which allows the defence to move forward.
Godman is key in linking different parts of the team together. He is vital in keeping the defence and attack linked. His communication skills allow him to organise the
team within a matter of seconds. He's loud and this can make defensive players aware of potential threats.
There is not point in trying to rush the player back because of his importance. Cruciate ligament injuries are delicate and have to be taken care of. Rushing recovery risks
making the injury worse and it's important Godman has a few months to re-gain his match fitness ahead of the World Cup next summer.
"Edinburgh and Scotland medical teams will be working to deliver him
ready to be considered for selection for the Rugby World Cup squad next year,"
said Robson.
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