STUART HOGG has completed a stunning career U-turn and has penned a two-year deal to return to rugby.
The Scotland and Lions full-back, 32, announced his retirement just before the World Cup last year and said at the time that his body was broken as he hung up his boots.
But now the former Glasgow and Exeter star has officially been snapped up by a new team after being linked with hometown club Hawick and Newcastle Falcons as well as teams in Japan.
He has signed a two-year deal with French side Montpellier with the option of a third season.
Hogg is one of Scotland’s most celebrated rugby stars having earned 100 caps and is the country’s all-time leading try scorer.
He was also awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours list for services to rugby.
But the 32-year-old has endured difficulties in his personal life over the past 12 months that led to him spending time in rehab.
The full-back appeared in court last month charged with acting in an abusive manner to his estranged wife, Gill.
Hogg pleaded not guilty and faces trial next month.
Now he is looking to put his turmoil behind him and return to the sport, with Montpellier confirming the signing of the Scotland legend today.
The move comes just days after Montpellier retained their Top 14 status after narrowly beating Grenoble in a relegation play-off game on Sunday evening.
He has been snapped up as medical cover for Anthony Bouvier who is sidelined through injury until next year.
Hogg first dropped the hint that he could come out of retirement when he revealed he would consider a cameo outing with Hawick in the Border League.
Speaking as a pundit on TNT Sports, he said: “I think I’ll play (but) I don’t think I’ll play professionally.
“I might have a little run-out for Hawick next season and see how that goes. I’m really enjoying my new life.
“I still get the match-day buzz – the build-up to the game, the warm-up and stuff. I used to love it, and I’ve had that forever. Will I play professionally again? Probably not.”
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