ED KALMAN has handed Glasgow a much-needed boost by pronouncing himself bang on schedule for a January return to action.

The Warriors tighthead prop required minor back surgery during the close season, but has been back lifting weights and doing fitness work for three weeks and is eyeing a New Year return to the fray.

With Mike Cusack establishing himself as first pick tighthead during Kalman's absence and that of Moray Low, who was out with a knee injury, the big front row admits he has work to do to reclaim his place.

Kalman said: "Things are progressing well and I have been doing weights and general fitness stuff with running for a couple of weeks now. But you can't rush back injuries and the care I have has been fantastic.

It has been frustrating to sit on the sidelines while the boys have gone about compiling a new record of wins in the PRO12.

"But maybe even more so when you are helpless to make a difference when things don't go so well as was the case at Munster at the weekend.

"But the main thing for me is that I am absolutely on target for a mid- January return and the key at this stage is not to over-do anything."

With Glasgow left reeling by the 31-3 loss to Munster that is their heaviest defeat under Gregor Townsend, Kalman has backed his mates to bounce back by beating Castres in the must-win Heineken Cup clash at Scotstoun on Friday night.

He said: "The boys are hurting and there is a real determination in front of our fans to get the win we need. A response is required and I am sure we will provide one."