Pearce admits to 'mistake' after copping giant ban

Disgraced Sydney Roosters star Mitchell Pearce admitted he "made the mistake" after copping an eight-week ban and mammoth fine for his now infamous lewd video on Australia Day.

Pearce, who was caught making unwanted advances on a woman and simulating a sex act with a dog, gave an exclusive interview to Nine News after completing a training session on his own at Moore Park.

Describing the past few months as "sad", Pearce said he had expected a long stint on the sidelines in what would be his first step on regaining his place in the game.

He was suspended from the first eight rounds of the new NRL season and fined $125,000, $50,000 of which has been suspended for two years.

"I made the mistake … I'm copping anything that comes my way on the chin," Pearce told Nine reporter Neil Breen.

"It's been a sad, sad few months but I'm looking forward to getting back on track.

"I've got a lot of respect to earn."

Pearce has been forced to train on his own since returning from rehabilitation in Thailand but will return to team duties on Monday.

And the former NSW State of Origin player said he can't wait to get back on the field with his teammates.

However, he was adamant that a return to the Roosters' fold wouldn't be a quick fix to his tarnished reputation.

"I'm not right back with the boys yet … I did a bit of speed work with our sprint coach," Pearce said.

"(But) I can't wait. I've missed everyone and felt a bit out of the loop.

"But I needed to feel that.

"I'm by no means back on track yet around the team."