But the one-cap New Zealand centre has returned to pre-season training early and is raring to return to his form glories for the Welsh region.

"I'm delighted to be back and feeling good - pre-season has been hard but I think that's what I needed," said King.

"I played a bit last season but this summer really has been crucial for me. I've done a lot of strength work and have pretty much trained all the way through the summer break to make sure I'm right.

"I was a bit tentative to begin with standing on my leg and found myself just running in straight lines when I played.

"But I think this summer has given me a lot of confidence that I am back to full fitness and I'm chomping at the bit to get started.

"We've got a few players back from injury now so we should be back to full strength for the season.

"We've got a great fitness coach in Brad Harrington and he has been superb with me and some of the other boys in helping us get back in shape."