Johnson can return to his starring role, says Smith

GLASGOW WARRIORS head coach Franco Smith has backed Sam Johnson to shine on his return from injury in tonight’s Challenge Cup clash with Perpignan. Johnson has been out of action for three months since suffering a broken jaw in a game against the Sharks back in October. But the Scotland centre has been restored to the Warriors midfield for tonight’s clash in France, where Glasgow will be looking to build on their excellent recent form. Smith’s side have now won six games on the bounce in all competitions, including a 26-18 victory over Perpignan in the reverse fixture last month. They are in pole position to progress to the knockout stages of the Challenge Cup — and Smith admits that he’s thrilled to see Johnson back in action. Johnson’s midfield partner will be Stafford McDowall, who captains the side for the first time, and Smith is excited by the prospect of them teaming up together. ‘It was the third time he has broken his jaw, so we wanted to give him the maximum time to recover properly and to build up his confidence in contact again,’ said the Glasgow boss. ‘He uses his body quite well. We didn’t want to risk any other injury. Now is actually the perfect timing for him in this period to show all the qualities he has as an international player.

‘It’s really exciting to have him back. It’s another good centre combination going in there along with Stafford. ‘I’m really proud of Stafford. He’s a natural leader and I think he’s proven a lot this year with his hard work and diligence. ‘You can see it in the confidence the players around him have in him. He can lead this team and that will enhance our leadership group overall. ‘It’s a good compliment to where the club is at right now that a young guy like that can step up and lead as captain.’ GLASGOW: McKay; Forbes, McDowall, Johnson, Smith; Miotti, Dobie; McBeth, Matthews, Sordoni, Du Preez, Gray, Ferrie; Dempsey, Neild. Replacements: A Fraser, Bhatti, Berghan, Bean, Samuel, Gordon, Kennedy, Weir.