Glasgow out to defend title as Edinburgh try harder

Both sides have added to their squads ahead of the new season, with significant departures from both clubs too.

Adam Hastings has returned to Glasgow, while Scotland prop Rory Sutherland has also signed, with the likes of George Turner, Ross Thompson – who has joined Edinburgh – and Oli Kebble departing Scotstoun.

“The big Glasgow signing is Hastings,” Brown said.

“When he left three years ago, Adam was playing brilliant rugby. He’s had a really difficult three years in terms of injury at Gloucester, so it would be really nice now to see him settled and fit.

“Rory Sutherland coming in will add a massive amount of quality and experience to that front row. There’s been a lot of quality gone out the door, but that 30-man base is still really, really strong.”

Edinburgh’s struggle to score tries was often partly attributed to a lack of creativity in midfield, not helped by a constantly changing back-line beset by injuries.

The additions of Mosese Tuipulotu – brother of Glasgow and Scotland stalwart Sione – and Matt Scott should offer a greater attacking threat, while Scotland number eight Magnus Bradbury has returned to the capital to replace Bill Mata.

The return of Scotland wing Darcy Graham, back after an eight-month injury lay-off, will also provide a lift.

“Darcy is a world star,” Paterson said. “He’s an absolute diamond, so you want to see him play as much as possible.

“There’s quality across that back three. Duhan van de Merwe, Emiliano Boffelli didn’t play a lot last year, Harry Patterson came in and took his opportunity with the national team; Wes Gooson had a brilliant season last year as well.

“I do think Edinburgh could be well suited to play a counter-attack style, forcing teams to kick and then bringing these back-three players into the game.”