Coronation Street star Ryan Thomas has opened up about his upcoming return to the ITV soap, teasing a romantic twist for his character Jason Grimshaw.

It was confirmed earlier this year that the star would return to Weatherfield after an 11-year absence, making a guest appearance as part of his on-screen mum Sue Cleaver’s exit storyline.

Ahead of his return scenes airing, Thomas has assured fans that Jason hasn’t changed much since they last saw him on the cobbles, saying he is “still that happy-go-lucky, lovable guy”.

“He makes it up as he goes along, has a loving heart, and is all about family,” he added, before teasing: “And he certainly hasn’t changed when it comes to women, straight away he is taking someone back home with him and getting himself into hot water with his brother!”

As for what brings Jason back to Weatherfield, Thomas said: “He’s struggling for money, his girlfriend left him, and he needs his mum. He says he’s come back for Eileen, but he really needs a cuddle and his safety net.”

The actor also spoke about what is was like reprising the role after over a decade, saying it was “a bit of a shock to the system at first”.

“I even went on YouTube to rewatch old scenes and got nervous. But it became the norm again very quickly. Everything about the script made it easy for me,” he explained.

“There are the little golden nuggets of mother and son, you know, the flirty banter he has with the ladies and the fact that the friendship he has with Steve MacDonald is still there. And of course he and his brother winding each other up.”

Asked if returning was the right decision, he said: “Absolutely, I have no regrets. It’s been the perfect storyline and a real memory I can cherish.

“It felt like the old days, we’ve all been in the canteen, having lunch together and I had real fun.”

Thomas previously revealed that he received a call from his on-screen mum Sue Cleaver asking if he would come back for her exit.

Cleaver announced her decision to leave the soap in January after 25 years in the role of Eileen Grimshaw. Her final scenes are set to air this spring.