Scotland stand-off Phil Godman has thanked former Lions star Gregor Townsend for helping him win back his place in the Test side.
The Edinburgh No. 10 found himself in the international wilderness following a nightmare first-half display against Italy at Murrayfield in the 2007 RBS 6 Nations.
Just when the talented player looked to be carving out an international career he made numerous mistakes as Scotland conceded three early tries from which they never recovered.
After that game Scotland coach Frank Hadden opted for the more secure kicking game of Dan Parks or the athleticism of Chris Paterson at stand-off as Godman had to settle for a place in the ‘A’ team throughout the World Cup and this year’s RBS 6 Nations.
However an excellent season with Edinburgh saw him claim a place on the tour to Argentina and he started the second Test win against the Pumas after Parks was dropped following the first-Test defeat.
Godman said: “It has been a good season and I’ve really enjoyed every minute of it. There is a special team spirit at Edinburgh and that has helped the team achieve success.
“I think it is a really exciting place to be because we are planning to build on this season’s results. Our aspirations are to make an even bigger impact in the European Cup and the Celtic League.
“It has been a good year for me and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. I think I’ve been improving and I’m looking to develop as an individual and take it on another step.
“Gregor has come in and also given me some useful advice; not just for me, but also for the whole of the back line. I think we are turning into one of the most dangerous back lines around and that is very pleasing.”
