The 32-year-old was jettisoned from the national squad as part of Matt Williams' shake-up of Scottish rugby along with Glenn Metcalfe and James McLaren.

But, after the dismissal of the Australian, Scotland's record cap holder, who is currently with Montpellier in France, insists he is fit to return if required.

Townsend told the Edinburgh Evening News: ''I did not want to retire at all 16 months ago.

''I have missed international rugby, so I will see what happens.

''This year is the first time I have attended internationals since I stopped playing in them and it was great to catch up with friends.

''Certainly I am feeling fit and fresh enough.

''Around Christmas, I picked up a neck injury which put me out for six weeks, but I've come back feeling good so my options are open.''

Townsend, who won the MBE for services to the game in 1999, earned 82 caps before leaving the Scotland set-up.

He said: ''There's a lot of water to flow under the bridge before the first match of next season which is in November but I will see how I feel come the start of 2005-06.''

Townsend added: ''I hope that Scottish rugby can have a fresh start and whoever comes in as coach can have the support he deserves.

''It is important now that the whole of Scottish rugby gets behind the incomer who should be the best man for the job regardless of which country he comes from.

''In seeking the best available the SRU should take however many weeks or months are required just so long as they get it right.''