Paterson’s removal is one of five changes to the starting XV following Saturday’s first defeat of the season to Leinster.

Scotland’s most capped player and record points-scorer missed a last-gasp kick that would have snatched victory against the European champions.

But Moffat insisted today the 31-year-old was being rested rather than dropped, with the same applying to British and Irish Lions hooker Ross Ford, Scotland centre Ben Cairns, Kyle Traynor and Roddy Grant.

Moffat said: “There have been some tough selection decisions to make and, make no mistake about it, the side chosen is not an experimental team.

“We have selected the team we believe can go to the Ospreys and win while also managing the well-being of the whole squad.

“You will see very few teams in the Magners League pick the same starting line-up every week and we need to maximise the resources from within our squad.

“As I’ve said before, the challenges we face this season in the Magners League and Heineken Cup will require contributions from every member of our squad.

“The changes now give other players a chance to show what they can do against quality opposition. They have warranted a chance and now they have to seize that opportunity.”

Paterson is replaced at full-back by summer signing Steve Jones, who makes his debut.

The Scotland A international and former Newcastle star said: “I’m really pleased to have been given an opportunity. I’ve been waiting for an opening and now I’m determined to make the most of it.”

Scotland prop Allan Jacobsen, John Houston, Andrew Kelly and Scott Newlands have all been recalled.

Magners League leaders Edinburgh remain without Scotland wing Simon Webster (Achilles), club captain Simon Cross (knee) and long-term absentees Ross Rennie (knee) and David Callam (hip).

Full-back Jim Thompson and Scotland lock Jim Hamilton (both knee) are back doing light training and closer to returning to first-team duty.