IAN Gough is back in the big time and says there is a lot more to come. The big Newport lock (pictured) had weeks agonising as he tried to recover from a major shoulder operation which put him out for six months, but he's made it against world champions Australia at the Millennium Stadium on Sunday.

During the months of treatment and taking it one step at a time, Gough had one ambition -- to play against Australia.

But he admits there were times when he doubted whether he would make it, which would have been a double disappointment after missing out on the World Cup.

"My first game back I had 20 minutes against Swansea, so I hoped for a half against Leinster but got another 20 minutes," he said.

"Then I hoped to start in the Leinster return, but had a half when I thought I needed to play the whole game to have any chance for Wales.

"Then I was picked for the A team against Argentina and I thought I would be with them for the series. But it's turned round brilliantly, my shoulder is fine and now I've got to keep at it, week in, week out.

"Maybe I haven't been quite 100%, but I set my standards high and there's more to come from me.

"It was one of my goals to play against Australia, though it was a long shot and a big ask after being out for so long."

Gough has never played against Australia, and he can't wait for the chance. "It's my first time, I've never played against them and I'm excited about it," he said.

"The mood in the camp is great, slightly more relaxed, and I can't wait to get out there." lGough will have the chance to resume his partnership with former Wales lock Mike Voyle next week after Voyle informed Newport last night he was coming back.

Voyle flies in on Sunday after agreeing to take up the offer of an extended contract with Newport to the end of the season.

He had been in great form before returning to New Zealand a month ago as his wife and child live there and another baby is due.

"Mike has agreed to come for the rest of the season, though we will release him to go home for the birth of his baby around the end of March," said Newport chief executive Keith Grainger.

"Mike earns his living playing rugby and with that responsibility to his family they agreed it was best for him to come back.

"We're delighted. He's played some fantastic rugby for three months and adds to our strength in depth."

It means Newport have Gough, Voyle and skipper Simon Raiwalui as three international locks.