Warriors snap up Toulon giant

Worcester Warriors have secured the services of former England international and Sale Sharks lock Dean Schofield who will join them from French giants Toulon at the end of the season.

Manchester-born Schofield has always been a favourite with fans throughout his career for his no-nonsense approach to the game and all-round commitment on the field.

The 33-year-old made his England debut against South Africa in the summer tour prior to the 2007 World Cup and was also part of the England Saxons squad in the 2009 Churchill Cup, coming off the bench in the final.

Schofield already has a huge reputation in the English top-flight, having played for Sale Sharks between 2001 and 2010 and featuring in 162 games for the club. He was named Sale captain during the 2009/10 season.

Warriors head Coach Richard Hill said: "We're delighted to confirm that Dean will join us from next season. He will add more physical presence and power to our pack of forwards and we want to go for a big pack next season.

"Dean is a big man and a powerful man who is also quick and has superb skills. When he plays he stands out in the pack of forwards, he is all-action and brings his presence to the close quarters and is very influential.

"I have spoken to Joe El-Abd, who was my captain at Bristol and who now plays with him at Toulon, and he has said just how highly regarded Dean is in the Top 14 and how skillful a player he is too.

"Dean has a vast amount of Premiership and Heineken Cup experience. With Craig Gillies, James Percival and Chris Jones also contracted for next season, we have players that really complement each other and it gives us strength in depth and huge competition next season," added Hill.