Matt Perry could be back in action within a month according to Bath's head of physical preparation, Chris Mallac.

There were fears that the 27-year-old full-back may require a lengthy spell out of the game in order to shake off the troublesome back and hamstring problems that have hampered his career since 2002.

The latest problem is to do with his back but is unrelated to the successful operation last season that he underwent to remove troublesome scar tissue in his groin.

However, Perry could be back in training by the end of the month thanks largely to the work of a London rehab specialist, who has had him running backwards on a specially modified treadmill.

The rehab programme was recommended to Mallac by former Bath full-back Paul Sampson, and the Australian believes that Matt has made remarkable progress so far.

Mallac said: "It is looking good at the moment.

"He is working extremely hard at the moment.

"There are already improvements in terms of the strength of his hamstrings and lower back, and we are pleased with the way in which he is progressing."