Justin Smith has returned to practice with the San Francisco 49ers.

The defensive lineman has been missing since partially tearing his triceps last month.

The 33-year-old told CSN Bay Area: "I think it's just a matter of getting out there and going.

"You just go out there and play until you can't and be ready. I feel like I'll be ready.

"I really wasn't trying to pay attention to it, honestly. You can't worry about it in the game, so try not to worry about it now and go on from there."

Smith will need to undergo surgery to repair the injury, but intends to delay the operation until after the playoffs.

The 49ers have a bye from the first round of the playoffs, and will face the highest remaining seed at Candlestick Park next weekend.