John Brain has confirmed Warriors skipper Pat Sanderson will miss the Friday night clash with Sale Sharks – but could return a week later against Newcastle Falcons.
Sanderson broke a bone in his hand in the home victory over Bath Rugby at Sixways and will now sit out the trip to his former club at Edgeley Park.
However, England international Sanderson could make his comeback as early as seven days later in the Friday night clash against Newcastle.
And Director of Rugby Brain insists his replacement Tom Harding is more than capable of being able to fill his boots.
“Pat has broken a bone in his hand and will be in plaster until early next week, he is out of this Friday night but has a chance of featuring against Newcastle,” he said.
“It is not the ideal time to lose Pat but Tom Harding will replace him in the team and he has had a good season.
“He is a real workaholic on the field, gets through a lot tackles and is a skilful player. He is also good at slowing up opposition ball and I think we have a very good replacement in him. I’m sure he will relish the opportunity to start such an important game.
Brain has revealed that Gary Trueman will also sit out the trip because of a groin problem and Tim Collier misses out after picking up an injury in training.
But James Brown is expected to win his fitness race after suffering concussion against Bath and Chris Fortey is set to shake off a shoulder injury.