Scott Gumbleton's recovery from a torn hamstring has taken another positive step, with the key forward returning to Peel Thunder's senior side in the loss to East Fremantle at East Fremantle Oval last Saturday.

It has been a tough 14 weeks for the 25 year old following the injury in the NAB cup game against the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium in February.

Despite his limited game time against the Sharks, Gumbleton was a powerful forward presence, with his hard leading and strong marking ability a highlight.

He took seven marks and kicked a goal from his 63 minutes game time.

He was happy to return to Peel Thunder. The last time he played for the club was back in 2006, before he was drafted to Essendon with the second pick in the AFL Draft.

"It's fantastic to contribute back to the club that I grew up playing for," he said.

When asked about how the hamstring was feeling, Gumbleton said it would take time, but he was confident he would return to peak fitness soon.

"It's a good start," he said.

"I took a few good marks, but I need to improve on the game in the coming weeks."