Scotland's hopes of an upset against England this weekend were boosted with the news that their three front-line injury worries were declared fit for the Calcutta Cup battle at Murrayfield.

Centre James McLaren (calf), hooker Gordon Bulloch (neck) and Lions number eight Simon Taylor (knee) were all doubts for Saturday after missing Friday's match between Glasgow and Edinburgh, which was eventually postponed.

Scots defence guru Alan Tait picked out McLaren as a vital cog in the wheel as his squad prepared for the toughest possible start to their Lloyds TSB Six Nations campaign.

"It is a huge plus for us that James has recovered from his calf problem, because he is a very important member of our group," said Tait.

"He has played a major part in the side in recent times, not only as a potent attacker but as the ideal target-man for the pack.

"He deserves credit for the way he has improved his fitness this season, and it shows on the pitch."

Six other players took no part in yesterday's training session on the back pitches at Murrayfield.

Lock Stuart Grimes failed to reach Edinburgh in time after being stranded for five hours on the train from Newcastle, which was held up in the Northumberland countryside because of the storms.

Bryan Redpath, Tom Smith, Gregor Townsend, John Leslie and George Graham were all nursing minor knocks after being in action for their clubs at the weekend - but coach Ian McGeechan was confident they would all be okay.

Tait insisted Scotland's defence was becoming more watertight every match but admitted they need to find more firepower if they are to compete for the title.

Back-row coach Pat Lam also claimed Scotland are a far better outfit than they were when he joined the set-up eight months ago.

Former Samoan captain Lam said: "It is tremendous to have everyone fit again after losing so many big names for the autumn internationals.

"This is the first time since the victory over Ireland in September that this particular group have been together.

"That could emerge as a positive factor because they are clearly delighted to be reunited."