INFLUENTIAL scrum-half Francois Hougaard says it feels “amazing” to be back fit and playing in the blue and gold of Worcester Warriors again.

But he insists his best is yet to come as he looks to “inspire” Warriors to Aviva Premiership survival for the third successive season.

The 29-year-old has been forced to bide his time in his recovery from a problem with his adductor which he aggravated while on international duty with South Africa in September.

But after more than two months on the treatment table, Hougaard was back pulling the strings for Warriors last Saturday as they beat Northampton Saints 30-15 at Sixways.

“It feels amazing to be back,” Hougaard said.

“It’s nice to be part of a club where you can make a contribution and you feel the unbelievable support from people out there.”

“It’s been a frustrating few weeks not being able to play and being a bit in the unknown.

“But I am continuing to work hard to get all the pain away.

“I am just very happy to get back on the field and able to help the guys get a victory.”

However, Hougaard insisted he was disappointed with his own performance and keen to improve when Warriors visit Leicester Tigers on Saturday (3pm).

“When you have not played in 10 weeks I don’t think anyone comes back and has their best performance of their life,” he said.

“It takes times and you only get better by playing.

“I have been very hard on myself this week as I know I can be so much better.

“I was not happy with my performance but the good thing about it is you get another opportunity, so I will be looking to fix that this weekend.”

Hougaard has proved to be a catalyst in helping Warriors avoid the drop in the past two campaigns.

And director of rugby Gary Gold admitted it was no coincidence Hougaard’s return against Northampton ended with Worcester ending their seven-match winless streak in the league.

But the experienced number nine is refusing to take credit for Warriors’ success.

“Rugby is not a one man sport as there are 23 guys on the day that make a difference,” he said.

“If I can inspire teammates to do well and bring a positive buzz then I am happy.

“But I am not taking credit for coming in and making a huge difference. That’s not how it works.”