'It's been a long process' - Wigan's French savours playing return

There was no easing himself back into action for Bevan French. Straight after his return to action for Wigan Warriors after 10 months out, the Australian was into a session with the club's strength and conditioning team.

Spending what remained of the night in the wake of coming off the interchange bench onto the wing in the second half of the 19-18 win at home to Hull FC doing what he can to keep improving his fitness levels shows French's determination to make an impact after an injury-disrupted 2021.

Indeed, the 26-year-old knows that is exactly what he needs to do if he is to replicate the performances which saw him earn a place in the 2020 Super League Dream Team and earn a nomination Man of Steel in his maiden season with Wigan.

"I'm still a fair way off where I need to be," French said. "The boys had a really tough pre-season and even being back now, they're still working very hard during the week as well.

"I missed quite a chunk there and I've got to take every opportunity I can to get back up to scratch and be at my best.

"It felt like an eternity since I've been on the field. It's been a long process to get back and I was just happy to get that feeling and be out there again."

It has been a long and difficult road back to fitness for French, who was initially expected to be out for 12 weeks after suffering a torn hamstring in the Warriors' Round 7 clash with Salford Red Devils in Super League last year.

However, it soon transpired he required surgery and the full-back was subsequently allowed to return to Australia for family reasons to complete his rehabilitation.

Even then though, Covid-enforced lockdowns led to him getting behind in his rehab and French admits finding the period mentally challenging as well,