Departing centre Sammy Tuitupou admits it has been hard to say goodbye to the Sixways faithful as he leaves Warriors – but has backed the club to make an instant return to the English elite.
Tuitupou is all set for a summer move to Ireland to link up with Munster after his three-year playing spell at the Warriors.
The Pocket Rocket – who this week jetted back to see family in New Zealand – became a firm favourite with fans during his time at the club due to his bone-shuddering tackling and direct running approach.
The former New Zealand international has now revealed he plans to come back and watch the side in action next season – and he expects to see a brand of winning rugby on show.
“I have really enjoyed my time at Warriors – time has gone by very fast,” said Tuitupou. who made 54 appearances for Worcester and scored 65 points.
“It has been a quick two and a half years and I have made some great friends over the years, not only in rugby but with the locals here and places I have stayed.
“It has been hard to say goodbye, but in a way I’m not going for good. Ireland is just around the corner and I have plenty of friends here who I will be looking forward to coming back to see.
“When the games don’t clash I plan to come back and join the fans here in the stands.
He added: “The biggest thing for me is playing with a smile on your face. Rugby to me is about enjoying yourself and getting out and playing with your friends. That is what it always was at Worcester.
“I now move on but you never say never to a return. Worcester has opened doors for me but this door will not be closed.
“Playing here has given me a wonderful opportunity at Munster. When I finish there this is the first club I will be looking at and who knows what might happen?
“Now I’m looking forward to the challenge at Munster, experiencing a new culture and also having a look around Ireland.”