The 29-year-old is now turning his attention back to club duty as Ulster face four crucial tests against sides all currently in the top six, hoping to secure a place in the GUINNESS PRO12 semi-finals.
But after settling back into life at the Kingspan Stadium, Payne is confident he can play a key role in his side's run-in, starting with a trip to rivals Connacht on April 11.
"It feels it has been that long since I have been here. It's good to be back," he said.
"The guys have been going well - they have had one or two slip-ups but we are in a great position.
"It's up to the players coming back in to contribute, fit in as quickly as possible and try to remember all the calls. I can't wait to get out there, it's going to be good.
"I was sitting last week thinking it was cool winning something, but that gives you an appetite to win more.
"Winning that title gave me a big incentive to win another trophy or two. It whets the appetite and I am hugely motivated for the games coming up."
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