SAM Burgess admits Warrington Wolves have missed what Lachlan Fitzgibbon offers them during his spell out injured.

The big second-rower has been struggling with a back injury of late and had a minor operation to correct the issue having come off at half-time during the Challenge Cup Final defeat to Wigan Warriors at Wembley last month.

He subsequently missed games against Salford Red Devils and Hull FC but the two-week international break came at a good time for the Australian, who returned against Huddersfield Giants on Friday.

Head coach Burgess has spoken highly about the 30-year-old’s influence on his teammates, admitting it is rare to see an overseas import make such an impact in a short space of time.

He also admitted Fitzgibbon “probably wasn’t right” for the Wembley final having carried the injury into the contest.

“We’ve lacked a bit of leadership when he’s not there and when he came off at Wembley,” he said.

“I don’t think he was right for the final but we gave him every opportunity.

“You can see the presence he has in the team and he’s a calming influence. We’ve missed him in that respect.

“He’s got a big physical presence about him and he’s a big influence on a lot of blokes in the side.

“He’s got his own style – he’s not too outspoken but he’s got a great personality and can blend in with any crowd.

“He’s got great relationships with all of the players, which Australian players don’t often have when they first come in.

“The players really enjoy his company and when you have that, you can get better feedback and have better relationships on the field.”