Darren Hughes closing in on rugby return

Darren Hughes is eyeing a return to action in the next few weeks following a long absence due to injury.

Hooker Hughes was stretchered off in the final game of last season after breaking his ankle.

It's been a gruelling rehabilitation for the 33-year-old but his efforts could soon be rewarded with a return to the pitch.

“Initially I thought I had dislocated it but then when the physios came on they told me how bad it was,” explained Hughes.

“I went to the Heath hospital and they told me I would need surgery. I ended up having three operations on it.

“The last one was in November where they took screws out and put a wire through my ankle to stabilise it.

“It’s been a learning curve about recovery and rehab.

“It’s been tough watching training week in week out.

“Only in the last few weeks have I been able to get involved a little bit.

“But being sat on the sidelines watching is frustrating because I can’t do anything to help the team.

“I’m hoping I’m on the other side of it, things are moving forward so I’m hoping to get out there pretty quick and make my mark.

Hughes has watched Pooler take maximum points game after game from the sidelines but knows getting back to match fitness is only part of the job.

“Since I’ve been here the club has always been doing good things but this year we are doing exceptionally well,” continued Hughes.

“The boys who have come in, Sam Scarfe, who is with the U20s, has been outstanding.

“Peter Lloyd has stepped in at hooker and is playing out of his skin.

“It’s not just a case of me walking into the team, I’ve got to fight hard to get back into the team but I’m excited to do it.

“It’s getting better every week. I’m back on the pitch, back running.

“It’s just about laying out a plan to get back into contact.

“I had earmarked Narberth and then to play against Neath this weekend but things haven’t moved as fast as I’d have hoped.

“The cup semi-final is a big driver for me getting back, I want to play before then.”