Western Force coach John Mitchell has warned fans not to expect a blistering return from former Wallaby Cameron Shepherd in Saturday's Super 14 clash with the Highlanders in New Zealand.

Shepherd has been plagued by injuries over the past two years and had the first half of his 2010 campaign ruined when he suffered a serious quad injury warming up for the season-opening clash with the Brumbies in Perth.

The 26-year-old passed a series of fitness tests at training this week and will make his first appearance of the season against the Highlanders.

But Mitchell said it could take some time for the speedy utility, who has been named on the right wing, to regain his touch.

"To have someone of Shep's experience back is huge," Mitchell said on Wednesday.

"But let's not put major expectation on Shep just because he's a former international and he's been exceptional for the club when he has played.

"He's been out for nine weeks so it's important he just finds his feet and does the best he possibly can and we help him get through his first performance.

"We think he's ready to go.

"It's important to have an attacking influence on the wings.

"It's a vital part of the game, certainly in our structure, so it's good to have Shep back.

"He's an exceptional attacking player."

Shepherd's return is a timely boost for the Force, who will be without Scott Staniforth for several weeks after the winger tore his calf in last week's win against the Stormers.

Halfback Brett Sheehan will spend another two weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Mitchell confirmed No.8 Richard Brown, who played a cameo role off the bench last week, would return to the starting side while Sam Wykes has snared a spot on the bench after recovering from a thigh complaint.

Mitchell said it was important for his team to keep building momentum after last week's thrilling win over the Stormers.

"Last week's result was on the back of three really strong performances and it's important we maintain that mindset going forward," he said.

"We are aware of the obstacles that exist when you go to New Zealand so it's important we don't let any obstacles get in our road.

"And we use the strength that we've drawn from each other during the difficult injury period and the way we just stuck to our guns and stayed tight and worked really hard for each other.

"We want to maintain that and we'll continue that mindset and work harder for each other because clearly there's been some good examples in recent weeks that have shown that if you do stick together and work hard things can turn for you."

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