Gordon Ross wants to make the most of his playing return, but stressed team benefit must come first at London Welsh.

Welsh’s assistant coach has featured at fly half in recent matches and will start against Northampton Saints tomorrow.

The 36-year-old former Scotland international played a key role as the Exiles won promotion from the Championship last season, but was expected to focus on coaching this campaign.

However, injuries to first-choice fly halves Olly Barkley and Tristan Roberts have seen Ross back in action.

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“I enjoy playing rugby and have played here for five or six years now,” he said.

“If the other coaches and management team think it will benefit the team, then I will play as often as possible.

“It’s about what’s best for the team and not what’s best for me.

“I enjoyed playing last weekend, but I was a bit disappointed with my own performance.

“I will just enjoy playing whether I am 36 or 56!”

Although Welsh have lost all 12 of their matches first-team this season, the Exiles have now won two Aviva A League games after Monday’s 38-22 victory over Wasps.

“It is great that the guys stood up again,” said Ross.

“But it is a big step up from the A League to the Premiership.

“We’ll hopefully get some of these guys playing in the first team in the future, but it is making sure it is the right time.

There is no doubt second-placed Northampton will provide formidable opposition tomorrow.

Ross said: “I’m hoping that it doesn’t get any tougher than Wasps (who beat us 71-7) two weeks ago.”

Northampton are quite similar to them. They are a big physical side, but they have some great individual players.

“It doesn’t matter what time of year you play these top sides, you are still going to come up against world-class players.”

As for his own side, Ross added: “There have been some improvements, but there is still a lot to work on.

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