The 31-year-old has been out of action for four months since picking up a cruciate ligament injury during the European Cup final win over Stade Francais on May 22.

I was not worried about my knee but I was doubtful about my ability to follow the pace imposed by Top 14 matches, he said.

In the end I was with the pace without using too much of my resources. I was also very happy to be back in the stadium with the supporters and my team-mates.

This knee injury was the second worst injury problem of my career after my hip trouble when I was playing at Dax.

But I have always managed to put things into perspective. I took this break as a holiday.

Pelous' return to action is also good news for the French national team, who start their autumn Test matches on November 5 against Australia.

They will then take on Canada, Tonga and South Africa.