Exeter Chiefs prop Craig Mitchell targets Wales place

Craig Mitchell has targeted regaining a starting berth with both Exeter Chiefs and Wales, with the prop set to return from an arm injury in January.

The 26-year-old, who joined from Ospreys in 2011, has not played since sustaining the problem in a 25-24 loss to London Welsh in September.

Mitchell last featured for the Six Nations champions in March 2011 when he dislocated his shoulder during a 19-13 victory over Ireland, ruling him out of the remainder of the season.

Earlier in 2012, he underwent surgery on a torn shoulder before suffering the latest setback at the start of the season, and Mitchell just wants to get back playing regular rugby.

“My focus is on getting fit with Exeter and then we’ll see what happens with Wales,” Mitchell told BBC Radio Devon.

“I’m back in full training so two weeks and I’ll be up to speed and I’ll try and fight my way back into the side.”

“What Wales have achieved in the past year is massive and I want to be a part of it. The only way to do it is to be playing well for Exeter.”
He added: “It’s been frustrating, especially after being out for so long with my shoulder.

“Then I came back, played a couple of games and then tore my bicep.”