The Gala-born player returned to Edinburgh after a season with Gloucester but has not been given any hints by Andy Robinson as to what position the head coach intends to select him in.

On the international stage, Paterson is also in the dark with Frank Hadden poised to keep his cards close to his chest ahead of the autumn internationals.

Paterson has played full-back for most of his international caps but has also been fielded on the wing on many occasions too.

Many feel his best position could be as a running stand-off and the man himself admits uncertainty over his position can be a disadvantage.

He said: “What is my strongest position? It is ongoing as it has been for the past 10 years.

“I can’t see it changing and there have been times over the past 10 years when you can get frustrated by it.

“Without moaning, it is difficult to improve on three positions at once at professional or international level.

“It is difficult but it is something I’m prepared to do because all I want to do is be on the field; wherever that is.

“If that means being in midfield or the back-three then so be it because I want to be able to make as bigger impact as possible and continue to improve as best I can.”