Director of Rugby Alan Solomons spoke to the media today ahead of Sunday’s Gallagher Premiership match against Gloucester.
Here’s what Alan had to say:
On the Sale Sharks win
- It was a vital win. The key was we performed really well on the day in all facets of play. As a consequence of that we got the result.
- In the Monday review after the Wasps match we made it clear that performance was not of the standard we require and everyone was in the right frame of mind against Sale.
What difference has that win made?
- There is still some way to go. We enjoyed the evening after the Sale game but we have three massive games left and it starts with Gloucester on Sunday.
- It’s not difficult for me not to look at other teams. I can’t control what they do. My focus is on making sure we get our performance right. If we get our performance right then we can compete with anybody in what is a powerful competition.
- We got it right against Sale and we need to get it right in every one of the last three games.
On Gloucester
- Gloucester are pushing for a home semi-final. They can possibly catch Saracens.
- They will present a massive challenge. They are a quality team with good players right acroos the board and there is no lack of motivation for them.
- It also has a local derby atmosphere. I would like us to have a full house here at Sixways because every single supporter does make a difference. For the players to run out to a sea of blue and gold flags does make a difference to them.
- It’s all about how we perform. If we can replicate the performance we had against Sale then anything is possible but we have to perform well.
On player recruitment
- It’s pretty much completed. I am happy with the recruitment process. You always have people that are going to move on and people you have to bring in.
- We know that Bryce has elected to have a different experience before he retires and Josh Adams has got to play in Wales.
- Ben Te’o is coming towards the end of his career and he has got to decide what he wants to do. He’s giving absolutely everything for us at the moment. The World Cup is his goal at this point and then he has got to decide what is appropriate for him.
- But Melani Nanai has been in scintillating form for the Blues and Ed Fidow has played really well for Samoa.
- Overall we will have a very strong squad and what is nice is to see a lot of youngsters pushing into the squad.
On Caleb Montgomery’s signing from Ulster
- He’s a young lad who I think has got some potential. He’s a very physical, aggressive player who is going to add value to us.
- It’s an opportunity for him. Everything I have seen and heard about him has been really positive. I think he is going to show what he can do next season.
On Wynand Olivier’s decision to retire
- Wynand has made a really positive contribution this year. He’s played quite a few games in the Cavaliers and he’s helped the youngsters around him.
- He has had a stellar career. He’s won a World Cup, he’s a top flight international and he’s a consummate professional.
- I think he’s enjoyed his time at Worcester. We have really enjoyed having here. He’s been of huge benefit to the development of youngsters, to the team and the club overall.
On Jonny Arr’s contribution to Warriors
- Jonny has been a fantastic servant to the club over many years. He’s Worcester born and bred and he has made an invaluable contribution.
- Hopefully Jonny will find somewhere where he can be a number one scrum-half or at the least a number two.
Injuries
- Ryan Mills is going to have an operation on his shoulder. He’s been very brave and played a number of games with his shoulder not being right. He will have an operation and hopefully he will be ready for next season.
- Will Butler fractured a forearm just before the end of the Cavaliers match at Newcastle on Monday night and he will need an operation.
- GJ van Velze is close to returning. He is taking a full part in training which is a positive.
- Michael Fatialofa is back in full training so hopefully he will be available for selection.