Scotland attack coach Gregor Townsend has heaped praise on Chris Paterson after the player announced his retirement from the international game.
The 33-year-old bows out after 12 years in which he earned 109 caps and scored 809 points for the national side.
Paterson overtook Townsend as Scotland’s most-capped player but the 38-year-old has nothing but fond memories of the Edinburgh player.
"When I think of Chris, the words professionalism, competitor and humility are closely linked to how he has conducted himself over his illustrious career," Townsend said.
"I'd also add inspirational - as I can only imagine the many thousands of kids that have taken up the game in Scotland thanks to his exploits on the field and his exemplary demeanour off the field."
Referring to a similar announcement from England's Johnny Wilkinson, he said: "It is apt that two of the best goal-kickers in world rugby have announced their retirements from international rugby so close together."
Patersonmade his debut in the 1999 World Cup against Spain before going on to play in another three tournaments with Scotland.
He captained the team twelve times, before making his final appearance in the World Cup defeat to England.
The player will continue his club career in the Scottish capital until the current campaign with the option of a one-year contract extension.
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