The Wales fly-half was ruled out for the rest of this season following an injury sustained in the Scarlets’ Heineken Cup clash against Exeter in December.
But according to forwards coach Danny Wilson, Priestland’s recovery is ahead of schedule.
The 22-cap fly half was seen running and kicking at the Millennium Stadium last Friday as the Scarlets prepared for their Judgement Day clash with the Newport Gwent Dragons.
“He’s making real good progress and done a lot of good work with the physiotherapists here,” said Wilson.
“It’s great to see him back on his feet and kicking and he’s slowly taking it one step at a time. That’s the way it will be for as long as it is going to take.”
Priestland started three of Wales’ four autumn internationals and came on as a replacement for Dan Biggar against Samoa.
But after returning to his region, an early injury saw him stretchered off against the Chiefs. At the time, head coach Simon Easterby said: “It’s a big blow for Rhys and for our region to lose a player of his quality and influence in our team.
“He was coming through well in the last couple of games of the autumn, put in a strong performance against Australia and was making a real impact on our game against Exeter so it is very difficult for him to take.
“But he will get plenty of support throughout the injury period.”
With a six month recovery time expected, it is unlikely Priestland will feature again this season.
But Wilson says the Wales man is progressing well.
“I’m not sure exactly where his rehab is at the moment but he’s probably a couple of steps further on than perhaps predicted,” he said.
“Most of these boys work hard to do that anyway so that’s not an uncommon thing. Rhys will keep working and I’m sure he’ll be back sooner rather than later.”
