Finn Russell returns to Scotland squad

The Racing 92 playmaker played no part in the Six Nations before the coronavirus-enforced break after being disciplined for a "breach of team protocol" ahead of the opening match against Ireland in Dublin.

It appeared there would be no way back for Russell under Townsend after he told the Sunday Times there would need to be "big changes" for him to resume his Scotland career, taking a dig at the head coach's style and man-management.

Townsend then responded by questioning the number 10's commitment to playing for his country, with Russell also having stated the pair have "no relationship".

Their issues have seemingly been resolved, though, after 28-year-old Russell was named in the 40-man squad for the conclusion of their Six Nations campaign against Wales and the inaugural Autumn Nations Cup.

The squad, captained by Stuart Hogg, features three uncapped players in Glasgow Warriors prop Oli Kebble, Edinburgh winger Duhan van der Merwe and Harlequins scrum-half Scott Steele.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT Gregor Townsend names 40-man Scotland squad for Autumn Internationals featuring three uncapped players. #AsOneFull story https://t.co/FiGKatkbX6 pic.twitter.com/LnqCJJlKuI

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) October 12, 2020

Townsend told Scottish Rugby's official website: "The squad we have selected is formed by the majority of the players we worked with in the Six Nations alongside players who have grabbed their opportunity in the past few weeks and have been in form for their respective teams."

Scotland begin their autumn Test matches at Murrayfield against Georgia on October 23 before facing Wales in Llanelli on October 31 for the conclusion of their Six Nations.