Mark Bennett has agreed to return to Glasgow Warriors on-loan from Clermont until the end of the season.
The 20-year-old centre, who received his grounding in the game at Cumnock and Ayr, has long been regarded as a player with the potential to perform at the highest level.
Previously part of the Warriors Elite Development system, he made his first XV debut at the age of 18, starring away to Leinster in May 2011 and has represented Scotland at U18 and U20 level.
Bennett then joined French giants Clermont Auvergne, making a fantastic initial impression before a knee injury interrupted his progress. He has been back playing since last January.
"It's hugely exciting for me to have the opportunity to return to Glasgow. It's always been my ambition to play professional rugby for the Warriors, and it was a massively tough decision to leave for Clermont 18 months ago," said Bennett.
"There has been real progress at Glasgow on and off the field since then, and it's a great environment to be coming into. You only need to look at the quality and depth of the squad to know that the Warriors and Scottish Rugby are serious about taking the club forward, and I'm delighted to have the chance to play my part in that process."
"Mark has the potential to become a very important player for Glasgow Warriors," added Gregor Townsend.
"We already have a good number of options in the centres, so we'll be looking to Mark to work hard in training and make a case for selection. Having coached him in the past, I know how driven he is to improve.
"His time in France will have developed him both as a rugby player and a person. From my conversations with him recently, the necessary desire and hunger to transfer what he has learned are there in abundance.
"It's further good news for the club and for Scottish rugby in general to be bringing Mark on board. He's here for the rest of the season, and, as with any player who comes in on loan, we'll be constantly assessing if and how they might fit into our plans in the longer term.
"The priority for Mark at the moment is to get settled back into the fold and work to win a place in the team."
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