James made his Wales debut against England in the 2007 World Cup

Gloucester lock Will James was relieved after his return to the Cherry and Whites starting XV after a long injury.

He had been out for eight weeks with a torn calf muscle but featured in the 25-21 win over Saracens on Sunday.

James told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "It has taken quite a while to get back but it was good to get a start up against Saracens.

"As a team perspective I felt really, really happy and on a personal note, I got through 60 minutes," he added.

"It is really, really frustrating but with an injury that I had you just have to take it week by week."

But the 31-year-old Wales international knows he will have plenty more work ahead to cement a starting berth at Kingsholm.

"It is a very competitive situation. When you play, you want to play your best and keep hold of your position."

Gloucester have Italy international Marco Bortolami, Adam Eustace and Alex Brown all baying for a starting position in the Gloucester second row.

Gloucester take on Bristol in the Guinness Premiership at Kingsholm on Friday at 2000 GMT.

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