Fremantle defender Michael Johnson says it was a tough ten weeks on the sidelines watching his team mates play without him.

Johnson returned from a long injury absence against West Coast on Sunday.

He had not played footy since his fateful 200^th game against Richmond back in round 10.

Johnson said he had no ill-effects from the derby.

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“ (My body) feels fine,” he said.

“I was a bit rusty with a few things but it’s good to be back out there and get the game under my belt.

“I wanted to get it done and dusted, unfortunately we didn’t get the win.”

Johnson said it was difficult to watch each week as his team mates ran out onto the field.

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“It was really tough watching them over the 10 weeks,” he said.

“It was good to get out and be amongst the boys again.

“I just want to be a part of it again.”

The focus is now on Sunday’s blockbuster against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

“I just want to get back out there and play against the Kangaroos this week,” he said.