Edinburgh head coach Rob Moffat has made three changes to his side for Sunday's 1872 Cup opener as he revealed Scotland lock Jim Hamilton could make his return from a long-term knee injury in next weekend's second leg.

Moffat has recalled Scotland prop Allan Jacobsen, fit-again second row Scott MacLeod and flanker Roddy Grant for the top-of-the-table Magners League clash at Glasgow.

But it is the imminent return of Hamilton which represents the most welcome news, with the 27-year-old having not played this season due to a knee injury.

Moffat said: "Scott MacLeod was rested last week in order to help to him to recover from a slight injury, but Craig Hamilton came in and did well.

"We will soon have four quality second rows challenging for two positions because Jim Hamilton's return is imminent."

Grant was replaced by Ross Rennie - who made his first Edinburgh appearance for almost a year - in Saturday's Heineken Cup win over Bath.

Moffat added: "The situation with Ross Rennie is that - even though he did very well last week - it is important that we manage him carefully.

"He is not going to be able to play every week. The best way to manage him is to manage him carefully.

"Roddy Grant has been outstanding for us and, after being rested for last week's match against Bath, will come back refreshed for what will be a tough match."

Vice captain Allister Hogg was scheduled to undergo surgery to repair a hip injury at Spire Murrayfield Hospital on Wednesday and is expected to miss the rest of the season.

Scotland co-captain Mike Blair and younger brother David remain out with ankle injuries.