Chairman Cecil Duckworth has backed Matt Mullan to become a star of the international game after his England call-up – and admits the news has underlined the strength of the Academy set-up at Warriors.
Duckworth was among the first to congratulate Mullan when news of his call-up to the England Saxons Elite Player Squad broke at Sixways Stadium.
The Warriors chief is now eager to watch the prop star grow on the international arena and hopes be will be the first of many youngsters at Warriors to make the step up in future years.
“It comes as no surprise that Martin Johnson has picked Matt to be in the England Saxons,” said Duckworth. “It had been rumoured for some while that he would be and confirmation came through today which is just wonderful news for Matt and the club.
“Matt’s talent has been obvious for some time and he has developed tremendously from his early days in the Academy to now, where he is first choice at prop with the added advantage of being able to play hooker.
“I’m particularly excited because I do think that Matt will go all the way to become a full England player and this is a significant step in his development.
“We have had other players that have come through our junior ranks and Academy set-up such as Dylan Hartley, Luke Narraway and Richard Blaze.
“They have moved on but we are confident that Matt will remain a Worcester player for a long time and I congratulate him and wish him well and every success.”