Full-back Chris Pennell admits he’s itching to play in Sunday’s Aviva Premiership battle with Bristol Rugby at Sixways (kick-off 3pm).
Warriors sit two points above Bristol at the foot of the league table, meaning Sunday’s match will be a crucial clash.
And Pennell insists that it’s the kind of fixture that every player wants to play in.
He said: “Games like this are why we play the game. We’ve got to embrace it and relish it.
“We’re going to go in confident with a job to do and we won’t hide away from the scale of the situation.
“It’s a huge game and everyone wants to play in big games so we’re looking forward to the challenge and laying a marker down at home.
“Personally, I’m desperate to be involved, so roll on Sunday.”
Pennell made his comeback from injury last weekend at Northampton Saints and revealed it had been a great first week back in training, while also paying tribute to skipper Donncha O’Callaghan.
He said: “It was great to be back out on the field. The boys have been going really well in the last few weeks which has been great to see but I’ve been keen to get out there and contribute.
“Donncha is fantastic. He’s obviously got a lot of experience. The way he talks you can see that every eye is on him and he’s an inspirational guy.
“He leads from the front and is someone who genuinely cares. He is easy to follow and in my first week in training with him leading the side, I’ve been hugely impressed.”
Pennell also praised Director of Rugby Gary Gold who has got players “scrapping” for places in the Warriors team.
He explained: “Gary has brought in some real direction and clarity. He’s got the guys fighting and we’re scrapping in the week for selection and training harder than ever before.
“We’re starting to see the results on the weekend and no doubt Gary will push us even harder this week so we’re ready for the challenge.”
Pennell has seen the likes of Jamie Shillcock and Josh Adams impress at full-back in his absence and he knows he has to be at the top of his game to try and reclaim his position in the starting line-up.
He added: “We started the season with Shilly at full-back doing really well but Josh has come in and been fantastic.
“You see how solid he is under the high ball. He does the basics really well and produced a world-class finish to score at the weekend.
“He’s a great prospect for now and the future. He can help me push my game to the next level and hopefully I can do the same for him going forward.”
Warriors have enjoyed some memorable battles with Bristol over the years, including an unforgettable Championship final second leg at Sixways where Pennell’s last-minute try, converted by Ryan Lamb, secured Warriors’ place back in the top flight.
And Pennell hopes his hometown Club will have another special day to celebrate on Sunday.
He concluded: “It was a special moment for me in the final and a special night for all of us at the Club.
“We’re not a side to give up, regardless of circumstances, and every one of us will keep fighting till the end and that stands us in good stead going into this weekend’s battle.”