Scotland captain Kelly Brown has admitted that he was disappointed to be dropped following the team's opening defeat to Ireland in the Six Nations.
The 31-year-old, who has been recalled for Saturday's clash with France, was left out of by interim coach Scott Johnson for the games against England and Italy.
However, Brown believes that he has improved during his time away from the side.
"I felt the same as any player being dropped," he is quoted as saying by BBC Sport. "I was naturally disappointed but there's no point feeling sorry for yourself.
"I went away and worked on parts of my game and I feel I've improved as a player."
Brown has won 61 caps for Scotland since he made his debut nine years ago.