And having missed nearly two years of rugby and endured two major operations, the Wales U21 international is finally ready to play again – with former club Bridgend.

Ospreys director of rugby Kevin Hopkins says Bishop should not be rushed back to action too soon.

"There is no way you can simply throw a player back into regional rugby after such a serious injury," he said.

Bridgend, who recently persuaded former Wales prop Peter Rogers out of retirement, will be hoping their latest acquisition can take them higher than last season's tenth placed finish in the Principality Premiership.

But for Hopkins, Bishop's performance is secondary to the invaluable time on the pitch he will get at the Brewery Field.

"David is a talented player and we are delighted to see him back, but we owe it to him not to expect too much too soon," he added.

"At Bridgend there will be plenty of opportunities for games and plenty of chances for David to get back up to speed. If ever a player deserved some good fortune, it is David."