John Barclay: Scarlets back-rower undergoes Achilles surgery

Barclay left Scotstoun on crutches, with his foot in a protective boot, after suffering an ankle injury

Scarlets and Scotland back-rower John Barclay has undergone surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon after being ruled out of the Pro14 final against Leinster in Dublin on Saturday.

The 31-year-old suffered the injury in Friday's semi-final win at Glasgow.

It means the Edinburgh-bound player's five-year career at Scarlets is over.

Scarlets stated: "We have made arrangements for John to begin his recovery and rehabilitation in Edinburgh."

Scarlets ran in four tries at Scotstoun as they overcame the hosts to reach their second successive final, but Barclay departed after nine minutes because of the injury.

Leinster beat Munster 16-15 in Saturday's second semi-final to book their date with the reigning champions.

Barclay was among several senior Scotland players rested from their summer tour of Canada, USA and Argentina.

Pivac praise

Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac praised Barclay's influence at the region.

"John has been huge," said Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac.

"He arrived the season before I got here.

"I've been here four years now and John's been a massive part of this squad.

"He's captained the side a lot when Ken (Owens) has been unavailable and did a very good job. He is fantastic with the referees on the field and is a very good player in his own right.

"He is massive in terms of the defence and communication and organisation in defence. He works closely with Byron Hayward (Scarlets defence coach) and is such a likeable guy too.

"Everyone gets on well with John and nobody has a bad word to say about him.

"He's just a true gentleman of the game."