Fearsome flanker Neil Best believes he is in the best shape of his career ahead of the new Aviva Premiership season – but acknowledges the battle for back row places will be huge at Sixways.
Former Ireland international Best is eager for the new campaign to start after injury disrupted last year.
The back row fractured his arm against Bath Rugby and then had a five-month injury layoff before being able to try and force his way back into Richard Hill’s plans.
The Belfast-born forward has spent this summer putting in the hard graft to ensure he is in top shape and admits the start of pre-season games – which kicks off against Cardiff Blues on Saturday afternoon – can now not come soon enough.
“I have enjoyed pre-season and I’m in the best shape I have been in since I arrived in England,” said Best, who has made 40 appearances for Warriors over two seasons.
“I am very happy with that and I have worked hard in the off season to get myself right.
“Last season was frustrating with the broken arm, it was difficult and it disrupted my year.
“But I have worked hard and I have put a lot of bulk on so I am a lot heavier which will help me. I feel happier about myself and what I can achieve this season.
“We all can’t wait for the Cardiff Blues game in pre-season and the chance to put down a marker.”
He added: “I have already enjoyed working with Nigel (Redman) and Phil (Vickery). It is early days at the moment, but I am sure they can mould us into being a better team than we were last season.
“That is what they are here to do and I am sure they will do exactly what is needed to make us better.
“The competition is good now. The vibe around the team is really good at the moment, the new lads have come in and adapted very well.
“There is a really good feeling about the team, better than my first two years here. I actually think there is a better feeling around the squad and whole club, expectation about what we can really achieve.
“There are plenty of boys going for back row spots, but competition is good for you so I won’t be complaining about that, you want to be pushed to get a place every weekend.”
Best also revealed his enjoyment at getting his first taste of rugby in the JP Morgan Asset Management Premiership 7s Series at Kingsholm – even if playing sevens is not his natural game!
“It was very difficult,” smiled Best. “The last time I played Sevens was 1999 in Melrose.
“I walked past the office and Hilly said to me ‘have you ever played Sevens’ and I told him I had. I thought he might give me a trial and the next thing you know I was playing.
“Seriously though, it was nice to get a run out. It was good for fitness and you always like to get the first bit of contact done against opposition.
“I enjoyed the evening a great deal even though the results went against us. It was nice to be involved and pull on the Worcester jersey for the first time this season.”
“I have enjoyed pre-season and I’m in the best shape I have been in since I arrived in England…"