Redpath retired from international rugby at the end of last years World Cup after winning 60 caps for his country.

Yet despite a fine career that has also seen him captain Scotland 21 times, scrum-half Redpath has never represented the Lions.

That is an ambition he would still like to fulfil and along with the likes of Welshmen Rob Howley and Scott Quinnell and former England captain Martin Johnson, could feature despite international retirement.

The Sale half-back said: I am available, if I thought it was an achievable goal I would have a go at it.

I have been on standby twice before but the sad thing is I have not performed in previous Lions (selection) seasons.

I am in the same position as Robert Howley, retired from international rugby but available for the Lions.

Redpath, who is hoping to recover from shoulder surgery in time for the start of next season, however has no regrets over his decision to step down from his Scotland duties.

The time was right to move on after the World Cup and there seem to be players with talent coming through, he added.

It is good that they are making their own mark and I did not want to hold on to something just for the sake of it.