Edinburgh expect injured Scotland international Martin Leslie to be fit for the start of next season.

The back row forward suffered medial ligament damage to his right knee in the first match of Scotland's Canadian tour.

But his club reported on Tuesday: "He is now undergoing an intensive course of physiotherapy.

"This rehab programme is expected to last until the start of August, when he will be fit to start the new season.

"This is a new injury and is not connected to any previous damage to the knee."

Significantly weakened

The injury put Leslie out of the remainder of the tour of Canada and the USA.

Leslie was injured in the 38-8 win over Canada East on Wednesday night.

With Budge Pountney already missing through injury, coach Ian McGeechan's pack was significantly weakened.

"It's two of our experienced back row that we have lost in a week, so it is a major blow in that respect," McGeechan had said.

"We need experience to go along side the youth, so it just means we've got to work a bit harder."

Nevertheless, the coach was pleased with the start made by his side on their summer tour, as they ran in five tries.

"I thought it was encouraging," he said. "It was great to see the youngsters coming into the side and playing well."

Scotland captain for the evening, Nathan Hines, praised the Canadian side for their defensive attributes.

"Canada were very physical and they put a lot of pressure on us," said Hines. "They showed a lot of commitment as well."