The Scarlets star ruptured his Achilles while on regional duty in December and missed the entire RBS 6 Nations.
But having been selected in Wales’ training squad ahead of their summer tour to Japan he feels better than ever and is aiming to wrestle the famous number 10 jersey back.
“It was never my jersey. Dan started every game in the Six Nations and Wales did really well,” said Priestland
“The pressure is on me to give a good account of myself to get in the squad, the matchday 22 and then to start a game.
“I’ve enjoyed the break, it’s part of rugby and I fell fitter than before.
“I’ve been fortunate that this was my first serious injury. You have to take the positives from it and I’m feeling fresh and the body’s good.
“It’s been a good rehab period for me.”.
Priestland will have a chance to impress in the RaboDirect PRO12 play-off semi-final with Ulster tonight
The Scarlets go into the clash on the back of their humilaiting 41-17 loss to Benetton Treviso but Priestland insists Ulster are beatable.
“After Treviso everyone was disappointed and embarrassed,” added Priestland.
“But it was a big wake up call and we know if we are anything like that again it will be another embarrassment.
“To beat Ulster we pretty much have to do the exact opposite of last week. If not they could run away with it.
“With Ruan Pienaar out there, Discipline will be huge but the big one is physicality at the breakdown and when carrying.
“They have a big pack and guys like Tommy Bowe, who will have a big point to prove before going away with the Lions.
“They do the basics very well and put a lot of pressure on to you with their big runners and exciting backs. There’s not many weaknesses
“But no team is unbeatable. We haven’t been in the knockout stages in four years but as a squad we’re looking forward to it and have to be on edge.”
