Bristol are ready to welcome Nathan Budgett back into their squad for the first time since the opening day of the season when they travel to Plymouth this weekend.

The 34-year-old lock has been troubled by a calf injury since the opening-day win over London Welsh – but trained yesterday.

Bristol Rugby have used Mariano Sambucetti, James Phillips and Roy Winters in the second row this season, with youngster Darren Barry stepping up to the first-team squad.

But, with Sambucetti about to join the Argentina squad for the autumn Test series, Budgett's return comes at an ideal time.

Bristol forwards coach John Brain said: "Budge will be like a new signing for us. He has only played one game for us this season.

"At the same time, it is absolutely tremendous for Mariano to have been called up by his country. He has a big ambition to play international rugby. And to have Budge back at the same time as we lose Mariano is great. Budge is such a reliable player."

Budgett's calf problem has proved problematic over the past two months – but he came through yesterday's training session unscathed. "It has taken quite a long time to get to the bottom of the injury," said Brain.

"But we got the injury fixed – and Budge has just come through his first full training session. I don't think there has been a reaction – and barring any adverse reaction, he should come back into contention for the weekend."

Hooker Ross Johnston, who injured a knee in the defeat at Doncaster ago, also hopes to be involved.

"Ross is touch-and-go at the moment," said Brain. "He's coming on very well, but it's too early to say. We will probably know a little more in the next 24 hours."

Bristol Rugby wing Tom Arscott, meanwhile, is relishing the return to his former club.

Arscott, like brother Luke, played for hometown club Albion before joining Bristol.

And, fresh from his hat-trick heroics against Coventry on Friday, the 22-year-old is eyeing a successful return.

"I've been looking forward to the Plymouth game since we came down," said Arscott. "It's my home town and I've played for Plymouth before, so there are obvious reasons why I want to go back and play there. I'm really looking forward to playing against my home club."