MacLeod has signed for Edinburgh after being released by Llanelli Scarlets and he further enhances Robinson's pack options.

The former England coach may well pair MacLeod and Jim Hamilton in an all-Test second-row combination and, when fit, use another Scotland lock Matt Mustchin as a blindside flanker.

The arrival of the man from Hawick takes to 95 per cent the number of Scottish-qualified players in Edinburgh’s 42-man squad – including 18 capped internationals.

Robinson, Scotland's assistant coach for the RBS 6 Nations, said: “Scott is a quality second row forward and he will provide extra strength in that department, especially with Matt (Mustchin) and Steven (Turnbull) still ruled out through injury.

“I’m looking forward to working with him again after our time together in Argentina and I believe he will be a useful signing.

“He will have to work hard in order to challenge for a place in our pack and his arrival underlines our ambitions as we look to achieve our best ever finish in the Celtic League.

“This is a good move for both Edinburgh and Scottish Rugby.”