Contracts Up - Player comings and goings 2013

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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:28:18:40:55 by Powick Eastander.

SEE PAGE 2 FOR UPDATES FROM 1ST FEB

I have been keeping records of players contracts for some years now and WarriorPhill suggested that I post the player contracts that finish this season as a basis for debate as to who you would keep/let go and why.

In the following list, if called upon, I can cite the source and date where I found the information. However, more often in the last couple of years, contract announcements have not always included a contract length. Where I haven’t been able to find a verifiable length in print, I have put my reasoning for believing that the contract is due to finish in brackets next to the player. This may be through word of mouth from a player, friend of friend etc, or just an educated guess based on a players age at the time of the last contract renewal, unproven Premiership experience or precedence set by Hilly with a similar player. WarriorPhill has also helped with some word of mouth information and if anyone can fill in more of the blanks I will update the list accordingly.

Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ceri Jones

Aleki Lutui

Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ollie Hayes

Craig Gillies

Matt Kvesic (Assumed MK took a 1yr deal to keep options open)

Neil Best

Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

Blair Cowan (Assumed end of 18mth contract)

Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

Ollie Frost

Shaun Perry

Andy Goode

Joey Carlisle

Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

NEW ARRIVALS

Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15


If there is enough interest i'll happily update the list as contract renewals/leavers are confirmed along with new arrivals as the information comes in.

So 13 definitely up with a possible further 14. Possibly 27 out of a squad of 38. Much to talk about and a lot of work for RH.



Edited 11 time(s). Last edit at 2013:01:30:21:12:05 by Old 7.

Think WP is right with Jonny. Not long ago I seem to recall.

Worry or opportunity... discuss.

Keepers...Murray, Mullan, Kev, Betty, Matevesi (if in doubt over need to keep), Goode, Sherv, Hayes, Short, RDC.....seemingly good, raw talent and ability that other positions can be built upon.

Let goers...Perry,Gillies,C Jones, Classens, Dran,Gray, Best, Cowan(not getting younger or gametime, Clarke (if due)...in the main injuries have blighted these guys gametime, or the game has now moved on to an extent that maybe their skills are not quite right for our current or future gameplan.

TBA Carlisle, Lutui, ROD, Frost...these guys need to do some special stuff soon to earn any new contract

Hope this the aim of the post.

Re Jonny

I have a news article from Jan 2012 stating an 'undisclosed contract extension'and Tom Guest reported that he 'understood' it was a 1 season extension. Google doesn't offer a newer report. His previous deal was reported in March 2010 as a 2yr contract, hence my assumption that he is up this year.

Matavesi definite keep IMHO! Sign him up for 3 years.

That really is a big list. We must remember that Percy was on the list too but lucky for us he signed a long new contract.

We are 3 weeks away from players being able to talk to other clubs, if they are in their last year of contract; therefore in 3 weeks time, potentially, all the guys above will be getting their agents to work, if the club have not already made them an offer.

At the start of the season a presentation by the new board stated that 22 players were going to be out of contract, RDC and Murray will make that 24. They also stated that the clubs intent (offer a deal or release) would be agreed in principle by the end of September AND that all new contract negotiations would start before the end of December. This is the time that rumours will start to float around and typically some of the most ridiculous will actually come to fruition.

For me, the keepers are:

Tevita Taumoepeau

Ewan Murray

Matt Mullan

George Porter

Edd Shervington

Ollie Hayes

Matt Kvesic

Sam Betty

Blair Cowan

Richard DeCarpentier

Ollie Frost

Andy Goode

Joey Carlisle

Andy Short

Josh Drauniniu

Errie Claassens

Meaning the summer of 2013 will be very busy for yet more signings. I can easily see 12 new players being needed for the 2013/14 season!

You wouldn't include Matavesi on that list WP? Also surprised to see TT featuring, not sure that will be an option unless you know more than most.

Matavesi isn't out of contract. If fit I would keep Dave!

I cannjot confirm if Matavesi or Clarke are in or out of contract as I haven't seen a reported contract length. I have assumed each has a 2yr deal, based on potential and pedigree respectively, but have put them on the list as they may have only have a 1yr deal.

Can anyone point me towards an article stating contract length? Otherwise if anyone has it 'on good authority' that they are not out of contract I will update the list.

I have two concerns

First is the number of props we could be losing and we all know the difficulty in signing good ones. O'Donnell excepted i would like to keep all of them although Dave would probably be our emergency cover through lack of mobility.

Second is that all of our recognised 10's are up for renewal. The team are starting to find their feet and to lose all of them would disrupt continuity IMO. Unless there is a 10 better than AG available and willing to come then I would re-sign all 3. Having said that I have a hunch that Joey will choose to leave this year. He will not progress unless he is first choice, so I believe he will go somewhere where he will be starting 10. A pity because I do rate him but AG is on fire this season.

Circa 1/3rd of the squad always seems to be up for contracts which may be a symptom kf uncertainty by the club and players over our longevity. Hopefully we will get a few more 3 year sign ups to steady key positions.

Whilst i accept the unease ver player negotiations, i don't think the club waits until 1/1/2013 to start talking.....well that is if we are becoming more savvy anyway! We may have been talking off the record to our own targets too...just like others may have bumped into one or two of our starlets!

With 3 yr contracts being the norm, couldn't we expect 1/3 of the team to be up every year?

Anything else is bad planning I'd say.

From my records, I would say that 2 years is the norm, certainly at Worcester. The 3 year contracts seem to be offered to the players who have the upper hand in negotiations and need tempting to come/stay. 1 year is for those who have something to prove, like being able to cope with a move from the Championship up to Prem level or that they are over an injury.

Goode is a must

Jc is a must for irish!

Dave - if there is any chance of a recovery should get a further year, maybe not as first choice but would be very useful from the bench.

then its anyones guess

I would have thought that not too much will be done until it is decided if Richard Hill will be with us next season , as I recall this is the last year of his contract is it not?

Regardless of whether Hill is here or not I would hope that loads is going on to re-sign much of that list! And for the record there is no reason that Hill should not be with us.

Hill's contract expires in 2014, he signed a 2 year extension (to his original 2 year deal) in July 2011.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2012:12:13:21:34:52 by spudola1.

Then I am sure that there will be a lot going on.

Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

Ewan Murray (Quoted in WN as wanting a contract past the end of the season)

Matt Mullan (Contract up but allegedly offered 3yr deal)

George Porter (Assumed end of 2yr contract)

Ceri Jones

Aleki Lutui

Edd Shervington

Ollie Hayes

Craig Gillies

Matt Kvesic (Assumed MK took a 1yr deal to keep options open)

Neil Best

Sam Betty (Assumed end of 2yr contract)

Blair Cowan (Assumed end of 18mth contract)

Richard DeCarpentier

Jonny Arr (Phil & I have different info, I believe he is out of contract,
Phil was told he had a new 2yr deal)

Ollie Frost

Shaun Perry

Andy Goode

Joey Carlisle

Danny Gray

John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Andy Short

Josh Drauniniu (Assumed only given 1yr deal as first year out of Navy)

Errie Claassens (Assumed end of 2yr contract)

James Currie

Just added Mr Currie to the list

can't imagine us ever seeing Big Dave play for Wuss agin.Sorry!!!

Would be tough for him now, agreed.

Why no formal announcement about Dave as yet by the club.

The guy is very proud and may not want a song and dance about it. Maybe the club is helping explore a few more avenues with Dave possile recovery before having to concede defeat?

Going to be a sad day when it happens though because after a wobbly start( excuse the pun as he was an overweight monster) he really became Mr Necessary together with Matt, to give us any sort of platform inthe Forwards.

Fingers crossed, but expecting the worst news to come, eventually.

TT will not be playing again according to his Mrs

"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

That same Mrs said he would be playing against Plymouth 3 days before KO. Just saying

I like Mrs Dave, nice lady. I held the baby for her once at MadStad a very long time ago while she had something to eat.

Just saying!

So, clubs can officially talk to any player with less than 1 year on their contract!

Who are we talking to? As plenty of other clubs seem to be signing players and bringing in new talent!

Josh D Signing This Week

Hopefully this win be a formal announcement from the club soon, but it looks like Josh is putting pen to paper

Good article and obviously the kind of player we want. Younger than I thought he was as well!! Excellent!

I hope we get Currie and Murray signed up soon. Quins are now shopping for Tightheads!

WP asks and Charlie Little responds!!

Worcester News

I class this as one of the most positive statements of intention we've heard yet!!

I'm sure there is a load of behind the scenes activity sorting contracts, but I really wish they could start announcing them soon ha ha

"...a stable environment"

I guess compared to Sale it might be, but 4-5 Coach/Mgr changes in Prem lifetime, and countless while attempting to escape the Championship initially, might make that part of the quote a bit stretchy, unless the Board back what Hill has done thus far with the team, on and off the pitch, and are setting their stall out to stick with him a season or two longer....

It'll be interesting to see how the financials fair after our first season back in Prem to see if that has moved in the right direction too.

Signing number 2 is Josh New Contract

I've updated my first post to reflect JD's resigning.

Some conflicting views out there. JD saying how great it is at Wuss and never considered anywhere else and a poster on the offy forum saying Matt K would love to stay but won't if RH remains in charge, backed up by another poster saying many players feel that way.

Seems Mrs TT was correct

Quote:

Worcester News
With fellow prop Tevita Taumoepeau seemingly unlikely to ever pull on a Warriors jersey again, Little is confident Murray, who was yesterday named in Scotland interim boss Scott Johnson’s Six Nations squad, will agree terms as the Tongan’s long-term replacement.

"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

Quote:

whatsgoingon
Seems Mrs TT was correct

Quote:

Worcester News
With fellow prop Tevita Taumoepeau seemingly unlikely to ever pull on a Warriors jersey again, Little is confident Murray, who was yesterday named in Scotland interim boss Scott Johnson’s Six Nations squad, will agree terms as the Tongan’s long-term replacement.

ha ha

Just to be a complete pessimist.. Every player we have had, bar Matt Mullan, who has got in the Saxons left the club the following season...

Richard Blaze
Graham Kitchener
Tom Wood
Miles Benjamin

I wonder where they got the idea that they needed to be somewhere other than Sixways???

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

...probably during the pre Saxon meet ups when speaking to their peers, or perhaps the now Elite Coach who just so happened to be the Saxons Coach at the time. Maybe Matt M didn't take his advice, and has now seemingly slipped off the Elite radar behind others...maybe to enforce the point.

I do love a good conspiracy theory.

BBC excerpt from their Josh D signing rehash

"Worcester have made it a club policy to no longer reveal the length of any players' contract."

There is now a rumour making the rounds that Goode was seen having a look around at Dragons. Anybody else know about this?

WP you're not wrong re Dragons

"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

I understood that Andy Goode was keen to sign a new contract with us. If he is looking elsewhere, presumably we cannot be bothered to re-sign him.

If true, and if that is the way Richard Hill is treating our best players, I can fully understand the rumours that are spreading about players not wanting to stay if he is still around.

I hope I have got it wrong, but if we lose our best players because of lack of action on the Club's part (speculation, I know), my wife and I will vote with our feet next season and not renew our season tickets.

Come on RH - sort it out before it is too late!

Deja vu? I've seen it all before

I can accept Goode going. He's not getting any younger, is very expensive, and a lot will depend on who replaces him. As there have been very few disappointing RH signings then if Goode goes, I'll trust that it's in our best interests.

You never know who we may have lined up - George Ford.

Still hope Goode stays.

George Ford?

I've just seen some bacon flying past the window!

Deja vu? I've seen it all before

AG has said he wants to stay but at what price? Maybe we've made him a reasonable offer but Dragons have offered silly money that we are not prepared to match. AG would be foolish not to at least talk to them. Maybe there's a bit of brinkmanship going on. All speculation of course.

If I remember correctly, Corin Palmer is responsible for contract negotiations, so maybe RH doesn't have too much influence on how much Wuss are prepared to do/pay to keep a player.

Dragons don't have money never mind silly money!

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Can't see AG moving for anything but money, unless he hasn't been offered a contract. He and RH haven't always seen eye to eye.

We've still got Joey......

And Danny!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Interesting and valid point Old 7 about Corin Palmer.

However, if RH wants a player at Sixways he should be vociferous in trying to make sure that this happens.

If he is over-ruled, then is his position tenable?

Probably not.

Deja vu? I've seen it all before

I am not entirely sure RH is fighting without at least ne hand behind his back....maybe bth!

You could be right, SB, but if so RH should stand his ground and demand what he wants - he is supposed to be the one in charge.

If he is being so restricted, then I would respect him for walking away from the role - and publicly stating why.

Deja vu? I've seen it all before

Tony,

Not saying this is true, but picture the following:

Recruitment decisions become broadly Hill's with some option from Board to decline what they deem poor or wasteful recruitment;

Board also need to retrict outflow of salary with contract negotiations, potentially leading to other players departing, some of which Hill might actually want to keep;

Player cliques may have decided that it's time for a change;

Board appoint additional Player Mgt to 'assist' Hill, but more than half of them are Part time;

Hill decides position is untenable under current constraints and walks. Detractors say,"told you he'd do another Bristol".

Board appoint new Coach from within...their man.

Under terms of leaving, i would guess Hill might never have the chance to give his side of the story except to nearest and dearest.

As i say may not happen, but wouldn't expect anything approaching that series of events to be publicised either.

Much has been made about " Hill being given everything he has asked for" in the past. Personally, i am not totally sure because of the recent Board changes and the financial constraints the club is operating under. I know the public line is that he has used salary released from players leaving, but again, the club are unlikely to publicise that they are making a cut in salaries for recruitment, as it doesn't sit well with the paying supporters.

It's my viewpoint which may be very wide of the mark, but the reality is, in truth, that none of us really knows the conditions Hill has had to operate under.

Old 7 you are right. Richard Hill is not in charge of negotiations. Corin Palmer is.
The way it was described to me is that Hill gives his opinion on players, along with the other coaches and the Corin does the rest. If a player did not want to stay or does not like his contract offer, I can't see there being much Hill can do?!

Goode is in the top 15 best paid players in the AP, he is getting older and the club could probably bring in 2 top quality players for his salary. I hope he stays but the RH needs to do the best for the team, if by resigning Goode it means we cannot bring in much else then we will be going backwards as a club.

First post updated to include Josh D's contract length. Quoted in the Worcester News as 2 yrs.

I thought the club declared it was no longer making contract lengths public knowledge?

But if the player mentions it in an interview. . .

AG thinks he's got 2 maybe 3 seasons left in the tank I heard the club think one and then see...maybe he wants a contract length longer than the club is offering?

All rumours of course!

Although Goode has a good injury record etc and is in good form I cannot see any club offering him a 3 year deal. I would think 2 year contract is reasonable with an option for a 3rd a possibility.

If I was on the board I think it would be a tough call. It is fair to assume he has a massive salary and probably equally high bonus package, but this season he has brought so much to our game he would appear worth it.
Would I want him here for 3 more years? Yes Would I want to commit to that right now? Not so sure I would hope a 2+1 deal could be agreed by both parties

If AG isn't able to agree an extended contract with the Club. I think it's rather silly to reason we could add two quality players with the money his salary would release.
More likely we would have to shell out a similar amount to secure a replacement that would keep us out of the relegation zone as our two other tens have never displayed the consistency to achieve this.
Age isn't a problem. There are some very good 35 year old fly halves doing great jobs for their clubs.
If we aren't able to keep proven, quality players perhaps we should resign ourselves to dropping down a division ?

Wonder if AG is in the top 3 highest paid Fly Halves whilst not being in the top 3 point scoring.

Successful clubs don't need to pay big cash to entice..we do, and no doubt despite his pledge and honour to the club despite relegation, i'm sure he didn't drop a penny of his contractual pay in the Champ season either.

It's a key position for sure, but his replacement would not cost the same as him, as i suspect it might be from outside of the Prem...

Still speculation...he may be signing a new contract as we speak. Seems strange that some clubs have been more than open this week about their leavers and joiners and new contracts, whereas Warriors seem to remain less open, although maybe that's just to do with the current negotiations at Warriors. IIRC Mr Little said last year that they would not pay over the odds for a player to stay or join just because of who we are. Maybe this is causing some contracts to stall or taking longer than planned.

SB, the question must be could we replace Andy Goode with someone of the same quality at less money. I would suggest not. We could probably get someone with potential which you could argue we have with Joey. So It would be poor business to bring someone in at JC's level. I actually believe that AG will agree a new contract and we can move on.

Am I right in thinking that last year announcements as to new players and re-signings came more or less at the rate of one a week?

If so, I would expect a similar pattern this time around - dragging our impatience out for quite a few weeks!

Turnover,

Who in the Prem would come to replace AG? We are possibly paying more for Goode than Sarries are for Farell or Hodgson, Quins are for the best 10 in the Prem, Leicester are for Flood or Ford, Glaws are for Burns, Chiefs for Steenson or their Argentine friend, and maybe even Welsh are their chappy, yet he is probably behind a good few of them. The quality is already elsewhere, and because we are Warriors we are expected to pay ver the odds for pretty much whatever we recruit or retain.

Most likely we will have to go for potential if he doesn't like what's on offer. Don't like pistols to clubs heads from any player let alone one who's careeer cannot be described as anything other than lucarative based on early success in his career but nothing for the last 5 or so..if in fact that is what is taking place.

SB we just don't know, there is too much speculation and the tone infers that he is hanging out for an improvement i.e in money or an extension beyond that which we deem reasonable. Who knows.There is one thing for sure he has made his public declaration that he wishes to see his career out at Warriors. Good Outside halves do not come cheap AG or not , FACT!

When a play states they want to see their career out at a club, it can mean committment for sure. It can mean they know they are on to a good thing too, that the agent hasn't hasn't had many notables sniffing enquiringly, and you can remain a big fish in a small pond.

If he really wants to stay you would hope the club and player will make it work sooner rather than later. He's done fine this season but arguably still notmthe best 10 in the Prem, pound for pound(money that it is, not wieght).

My money is on we will not see AG's contract being extended. Only hope they have a better number 10 lined up

"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

I would agree that he is not the best. However, is certainly on this seasons form probably in the top three. It has always been a position that has been under constant scrutiny at Worcester possibly because not unreasonably the importance. In my memory we have only had two high quality outside halves AG and Shane Drahm and John Brain all but ruined Drahm. AG for me has certainly earned his money this year and we are certainly a better side with than without. I suspect the issue will not be the money but more of time.

A whole thread could no doubt be devted to AG status in the Prem.

For Warriors THIS season, more of the beat of the team when we do well. But in comparison to his peers in the Prem, not a top 3 IMO. Cynically it might be construed that he seemed more important, influential this season as he knws he's "in the window" contractually.

If he goes Rabo he gets halcyon days in HC if that what he chooses, but i don't think the money wuld be there for him, although he might like the tax breaks alledged in Irish Rugby.

Hope he stays....because he does want to see his pro das with us, but for playing and progress reasons and not just a pay checque.

Just thought I would group together all the rumours I have heard, in one place:

Tevita Taumoepeau - To retire

Rob O'Donnell

Ewan Murray - Expected to sign on

Matt Mullan - Wasps

George Porter

Ceri Jones

Aleki Lutui

Edd Shervington

Ollie Hayes

Craig Gillies

Matt Kvesic - Tigers, Quins, Glaws all possible

Neil Best

Sam Betty

Blair Cowan

Richard DeCarpentier

Jonny Arr

Ollie Frost

Shaun Perry

Andy Goode - Dragons

Joey Carlisle - Wasps

Danny Gray

John Clarke

Andy Short

Josh Drauniniu - Worcester Warriors

Errie Claassens

Chris Pennell - Worcester Warriors

Have I missed any?

Added CP



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:01:23:14:06:46 by WarriorPhill.

Truth is that in pro sports money talks and people want something on the sideboard to look at when they stop playing and their bvarious injuries make it difficult to walk. Were any of us in this position, one bad tackle away from no job doing something which had been out sole focus since we were 16, I suspect that we would not be quite so holier than thou.Who wants to play their entire career for a team that loses more games than it wins? i agree is is disappointing when people we have nurtured turn away - but can any of us say we would not do it? Really?? Yes, it retards our progress as a club but it is not the only issue. We have "invested" badly over the years in some players and went down as a result; are we loyal to people when that loyalty is not repayed - are not all players mercenaries who will give there all ( and i really beielve that they do) whoever they play for because that is what motivates them

The pendulum may have swung back again. After hiring Sione, Fatiaki on cheaper rates and Clarke, it now seems home grown youth - Hayter is not offered work. Andy Short may be preferred, and Stelling as a back up, but is 5 centres enough for 2 positions (Grove, Matavesi, Clarke and Short & Stelling). Joey will be missed by a few if he goes – are we not offering enough for key positions and home grown again? Or has recruitment partly relied on local lads working for less when pacific islanders and championship lads are ready to move up division without a salary in-line with it? So after getting rid of some heavy costs at the end of last season Horstman etc., have the club now got caught short in not offering a market rate to those who would deserve it as core team-sheet players? The Matts etc, talk of Ar? I think quantity needs to be substituted for quality and soon. Josh Dranui signing so far doesn’t quite cut the mustard.

Good post centrethere. Couple comments: Don't forget we have also retained future Wales star James Percival! The Arr issue, I believe, is based on him being assured some things prior to signing his deal and within a week the assurances were proved unfounded. Not sure it is about money for him as his new deal was signed.

I think that we have seen a pattern develop over recent years whereby there is far more mobility between clubs than there was, say, 10 years ago. I also think that that mobility will increase in the future and that the merry go round will spin even faster.

Within that pattern will come, in my view, a gravitational pull towards the top clubs which will attract not only the top players but also money from various sources including sponsorship.

In the past, we have seen clubs move up and down the table over the seasons - their success (or otherwise) depending mostly on the collective qualities of their squad.

If the gravitational pull does develop as I fear this means that the top clubs will have the means to stay the top clubs and thus to keep the others in their places.

We are very close to being there now and this does mean that we have to accept the inevitable - that our top players will move to the top clubs irrespective of whether they are home-bred or not.

Many will see parallels with soccer but we have not yet reached the stage where there is mass movement of players in contract and therefore subject to transfer fees. As far as I can see, in rugby, players will only move at the end of their contracts save in exceptional cases.

So, if the aim is to be a mid table club, we must put up with many comings and goings in the future accepting that our own young stars will move on and that our transfers in will not be of current England international standard.

First post updated to include CP and LS signings.

That's the end of Besty I reckon.

Interestingly CP wasn't on my initial list as I had him down as in the middle of a 2 year contract. But on checking the source, the length isn't there. That must mean he was only given a 1yr contract last yr.

Also Danny Gray has a year left on his current contract so not negotiating this summer!

Updated re Danny Gray. Do you have a reportable source Phill?

I imagine everybody will have seen this extract from the club's announcement today but I copy it for the record:


Warriors have conducted a worldwide search for the very best talent to enhance the playing squad at Sixways and to secure the signatures of those who share both the club'sambition and ethos.

The club is now pleased to be able to announce the major signing of Senatore and is also in advanced talks with a number of other leading players as Warriors strive to assemble the strongest ever squad at Sixways.

"It is an exciting time to be connected with Warriors," said Corin Palmer, Rugby Operations Director.

"Players who are out of contract at the end of this season at Sixways can clearly see the calibre of signings we are now making. We also have players of international quality, both home and abroad, excited about Warriors and wanting to be a part of it.

"We are working very hard behind the scenes and the squad is starting to take shape for next season. We look forward to now making more positive announcements in the coming weeks."

"both home and abroad" indicates some English internationals I presume?

Welsh and Scots and Irish too maybe USA.

Wonder if James Hook saw anything to interest him in our two games...might sort the 10 conundrum out...if there is a conundrum to sort of course?

According to this morning's WN, there have been as yet no discussions with AG about his contract - other positions to sort first.

[www.worcesternews.co.uk]

Quote:

Shoutin' Bloke
Welsh and Scots and Irish too maybe USA.
Wonder if James Hook saw anything to interest him in our two games...might sort the 10 conundrum out...if there is a conundrum to sort of course?

I would have thought it was obvious. Nicky Robinson is out of contract. He loves Cheltenham. Easy commute to Worcester.He won't be coming back to Gloucester Rugby.

I find the Andy Goode and Carlisle situation mind boggling.
The comments by Richard Hill in the WEN are slightly disconcerting to say the least. He refers to the fact that they/he has not got round to looking at the fly half situation yet. I cannot believe that to be true. He has obviously had talks with Joe & reading between the lines it would appear that the signs are that Goode can go. Hill suggests that a position of such importance takes time and cannot be rushed, that being the case then it would be no surprise for AG to secure his future elsewhere.I just the feeling that is what Hill wants. I hope he is not fiddling while Rome burns.

Remember Richard Hill doesn't do the contract negotiations, Corin Palmer does. Perhaps the search for a 10 is so urgent that they are trying to look cool calm and collected about it..

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Pe I am aware of that , however I refer you to the WEN. Quote,
"he is at the end of his contract and 10 is one of the posts that we have to sort out, I haven@t done that yet.
Both outside halves are out of contract so I have to sit down and work out what I'm going to do there.
I haven't spoken to Andy about a new contract yet but at some stage I will have to sit down with him and have a talk about it"
This refers to the I (Hill) and I suspect if he wanted to keep him then Corin Palmer would dot the I' and cross the T's?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:01:24:12:00:39 by Turnover.

The 3 most important positions in the team IMHO are the 2 props and fly half. Both our 1st choice loose and tight head are out of contract this Summer as are our 1st and 2nd choice fly halves. What position is more important that needs sorting 1st ??
Hope the club is not playing a dangerous game that ends up with egg on their faces.

Quote:

Turnover
Pe I am aware of that , however I refer you to the WEN. Quote,
"he is at the end of his contract and 10 is one of the posts that we have to sort out, I haven@t done that yet.
Both outside halves are out of contract so I have to sit down and work out what I'm going to do there.
I haven't spoken to Andy about a new contract yet but at some stage I will have to sit down with him and have a talk about it"
This refers to the I (Hill) and I suspect if he wanted to keep him then Corin Palmer would dot the I' and cross the T's?

Though, playing devil's advocate, this could back into PE's assertion that the club are trying to put a brave face on things. It could even be smoke and mirrors and a deal is already done with a replacement 10?!? We just don't know!

Yes Phill, I agree, hence the reason why it just doesn't read right somehow.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:01:24:12:51:55 by Turnover.

Nicky Robinson's name actually makes a lot of sense if Joe is off to Pests.
AG is, and always will be, a kicking fly-half. (A very good one!)
If the plan is to develop the attack I'm sure Hill has someone in mind.
I don't see Robinson in a running ten role but he is someone who could provide ample backup with far less of the "loose cannon mentality" that Joe did, at times, exhibit.

Neil Fissler on twitter saying Matt Kvesic to Glos could be announced tomorrow. Tom Guest also claiming an exclusive announcement in Worcs News tomorrow.

Not looking good but great opportunity for Jake.

Wonder how many more games Kev will get the shirt once an announcement is made

Quote:

Old 7
Neil Fissler on twitter saying Matt Kvesic to Glos could be announced tomorrow. Tom Guest also claiming an exclusive announcement in Worcs News tomorrow.
Not looking good but great opportunity for Jake.

Both reported this morning.

Interesting to see, as SB says, how many games Kvesic now gets?!

Always wish a leaving player well but this move leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
Hope Hill gives the shirt to someone who wants to play for the club.

When I watched Matt Mullan play a full 80 in the snow and in a game which didn't mean anything on Saturday, I felt it signalled he was leaving.

BBC have confirmed Claassens is off to Bristol too. Gutted about that one!

Sad to see him go, but makes room for Ben Howard to come through. Until he heads off to any of 11 other clubs in a couple of years that is...

Updated with today's announcements

Updated to include today's signings

CarsonWishart 9:01am via Echofon
Scotland tighthead Euan Murray signs new two-year contract at @WorcsWarriors. Exclusive on @bbchw. #COYW #rugbyunited

Murray resigned is excellent news.

Updated for Murray & Short.

11 down 16 to go.

Quote:

Old 7
I have been keeping records of players contracts for some years now and WarriorPhill suggested that I post the player contracts that finish this season as a basis for debate as to who you would keep/let go and why.
In the following list, if called upon, I can cite the source and date where I found the information. However, more often in the last couple of years, contract announcements have not always included a contract length. Where I haven’t been able to find a verifiable length in print, I have put my reasoning for believing that the contract is due to finish in brackets next to the player. This may be through word of mouth from a player, friend of friend etc, or just an educated guess based on a players age at the time of the last contract renewal, unproven Premiership experience or precedence set by Hilly with a similar player. WarriorPhill has also helped with some word of mouth information and if anyone can fill in more of the blanks I will update the list accordingly.

Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ceri Jones

Aleki Lutui

Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ollie Hayes

Craig Gillies

Matt Kvesic (Assumed MK took a 1yr deal to keep options open)

Neil Best

Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

Blair Cowan (Assumed end of 18mth contract)

Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

Ollie Frost

Shaun Perry

Andy Goode

Joey Carlisle

Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

NEW ARRIVALS

Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15


If there is enough interest i'll happily update the list as contract renewals/leavers are confirmed along with new arrivals as the information comes in.

So 13 definitely up with a possible further 14. Possibly 27 out of a squad of 38. Much to talk about and a lot of work for RH.

Re-post so it is on page 2

I can't edit that WP. Do you want to take it from here?

Shall I put this on a News Item and sticky it..

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Sorry Old7 you should post it again so you can edit. It is your baby :-)

Yes please PE

Brought forward to page 2

I have been keeping records of players contracts for some years now and WarriorPhill suggested that I post the player contracts that finish this season as a basis for debate as to who you would keep/let go and why.

In the following list, if called upon, I can cite the source and date where I found the information. However, more often in the last couple of years, contract announcements have not always included a contract length. Where I haven’t been able to find a verifiable length in print, I have put my reasoning for believing that the contract is due to finish in brackets next to the player. This may be through word of mouth from a player, friend of friend etc, or just an educated guess based on a players age at the time of the last contract renewal, unproven Premiership experience or precedence set by Hilly with a similar player. WarriorPhill has also helped with some word of mouth information and if anyone can fill in more of the blanks I will update the list accordingly.

Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ceri Jones

Aleki Lutui

Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

Ollie Hayes

Craig Gillies

Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

Neil Best

Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

Ollie Frost

Shaun Perry

Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

NEW ARRIVALS

Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

If there is enough interest i'll happily update the list as contract renewals/leavers are confirmed along with new arrivals as the information comes in.

So 13 definitely up with a possible further 14. Possibly 27 out of a squad of 38. Much to talk about and a lot of work for RH.



Edited 7 time(s). Last edit at 2013:03:14:18:56:51 by Old 7.

Looking at the list of players whose contracts, it is thought, end at the end of this season, there are none I suggest who fit into the "have to keep" category with the possible exception of the two Ollies. The rest in my view fall at best into the "nice to have" category - that is to say replaceable if better can be found.

It follows that the squad next season would look very different if I am right.

Plenty of rumours about new signings but as the first two were not on the rumour radar and came out of the blue, perhaps we should expect more surprises.

Well in this weeks rugby paper we were linked with everyone:

Nick Robinson (Again)
Ryan Lamb
Rob Miller

I am sure I missed a few as well from that list.

Updated for Augustin and MK.

I guess that means the end for Aleki.

And nice to have this confirmed:

7:53am Tom Guest
Importantly, Senatore, Creevy (both Italian) and Warwick (Irish) all have EU passports, so Mieres is only foreign player in squad so far.

Some solid information / updates: -
[www.warriors.co.uk]

Answers the question about the missing Ravi. Reading between the lines it also seems to confirm that Goode was not offered a new contract - rather than choosing to leave Worcester for pastures richer.

Updated with today's announcements.

Aleki may still get a contract but I really want to hear about 2 loose heads signing now as we don't know what's happening with Ceri unless he had a 3 yr deal when he signed.

No news or movement for a week now!?

Didn't Hill say there was going to be a new signing announced possibly this week?

It has all got a bit dull but perhaps it has been distracting the players somewhat since we started all these announcements performance has dropped. Would happily "do a Leicester" and say nothing until June.

Tigers only avoid public announcements until June. As with our players, their whole team is aware of the ins and outs but this point each season

still one very very big signing to announce, don,t know when or who, but was told on saturday together with other news.

I don,t know the source but a friend does.

hope the second bit of romour is wrong but i will not elaborate.

sjjames_ 8:59am via Twitter for iPhone
Rumours on Sale Sharks fan forums suggest Andy Powell could be heading to Worcester and Fraser McKenzie to Newcastle - via @SaleRugbyNews.

hmmm don't think I want Andy Powell. He hasn't done much since his time at either Wasps or Sale. Too much of a liability in my eyes.

Not fussed either.

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Myler re-signs with Saints

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:02:20:09:53:24 by Powick Eastander.

Quote:

silver warrior
hmmm don't think I want Andy Powell. He hasn't done much since his time at either Wasps or Sale. Too much of a liability in my eyes.

However we are within golf buggy driving distance of the motorway so that should suit him. Corin Palmer working some different angles for recruitment.

Updated for Ben Howard.

Can anyone confirm is he's still on an academy contract or is now part of the main squad?

Brian Dick in the Sunday Mercury says that Craig Gillies has been offered a further 12 months contract. Well deserved for a loyal servant

Heard it is on reduced terms . . .

[www.birminghampost.net].

Not sure if you have read this

Thanks for that. If he is fighting Mullan's replacement and Ceri Jones:

a) Is CJ getting a new deal
b) What about Porter? He just signed a new deal?!

It don't rate him personally but Hilly must do,he's not a starter.
Porter has signed I heard.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:03:14:15:56:02 by Bri.

Porter signing was announced in Jan or Feb. Seems odd to have 2 LH early 20's 1 LH mid 30's and first choice yet to arrive

Hilly I believe hopes Porter will break through this year as second choice.

Updated to include Cowan leaving.

I've not put Paul Andrew in yet as nothing on the offy and no direct quotes from RH or player in the various reports to confirm. Propably just a matter of time.

George Porter's re-signing was announced on 29th Jan this year.

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

UNCONFIRMED

1. Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

2. Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

3. Ceri Jones

4. Aleki Lutui

5. Ollie Hayes

6. Craig Gillies

7. Neil Best

8. Ollie Frost

9. Shaun Perry

10. Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

11. John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

12. Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13



Sorry Old7 you will have to post again so you can update, just thought I would categorise the ins and outs

So, as of 15th March 2013 we have:

4 NEW Player Signings
9 Re-signed Players
12 Unconfirmed Players
7 Confirmed Players Leaving

As it stands we have:

Increased our current international count by 3 but increased our squad average age, mainly down to Kvesic and Short leaving

Are you waiting for confirmation before listing Andrew?

Yes USA, I use the offy for official confirmation.

The layout does make simpler viewing Phill. Of the 12 unconfirmed, I think we can discount the three we think are under contract and sadly, Dave.

Still a lot of business to be done it would seem.

I'll modify the layout on the next signing.

For what it is worth my gut feeling on those unconfirmed:



1. Tevita Taumoepeau - Leaving

2. Rob O'Donnell - Staying

3. Ceri Jones - Leaving

4. Aleki Lutui - Staying

5. Ollie Hayes - Staying

6. Craig Gillies - Staying

7. Neil Best - Staying

8. Ollie Frost - Leaving

9. Shaun Perry - Leaving

10. Danny Gray – Staying

11. John Clarke - Staying

12. Josh Matavesi - Staying

Tom Guest in today's WN suggests that next week will bring news of various new signings and re-signings to coincide with details of next season's ST prices etc.

Article not yet available on the 'net.

TG's article re signings.

WORCESTER NEWS

Any news on Tom Carlisle's plans for next season?

Driving his brother to Adams Park, allegedly...

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

5. Paul Andrew - New signing announced 18/3/13 from Pirates. Position Loose Head

6. Ofa Fainga'anuku - New signing announced 21/3/13 from Glasgow. Position Loose Head.

7. Mike Williams - New signing announced 27/3/13 from Blue Bulls, SA on a reported 2 yr contract. Position Lock/Blind side

8. James Stephenson - New signing announced 5/4/13 from Bedford on a reported 3 yr contract. Position winger

UNCONFIRMED

1. Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

2. Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

3. Ceri Jones

4. Aleki Lutui

5. Neil Best

6. Ollie Frost

7. Shaun Perry

8. Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

9. John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

10. Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

10. Ollie Hayes - New contract announced 18/3/13, no length announced.

11. Craig Gillies - New contract announced 20/3/13, no length length announced.

LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

8. Nikki Walker - Confirmed released from contract to move to Edinburgh 26/3/13



So, as of 5th April 2013 we have:

8 NEW Player Signings
11 Re-signed Players
10 Unconfirmed Players
8 Confirmed Players Leaving



Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2013:04:06:18:02:21 by Old 7.

Perry believed to be going based on comments from the man himself.

Quote:

WarriorPhill
For what it is worth my gut feeling on those unconfirmed:


1. Tevita Taumoepeau - Leaving

2. Rob O'Donnell - Staying

3. Ceri Jones - Leaving

4. Aleki Lutui - Staying

5. Ollie Hayes - Staying

6. Craig Gillies - Staying

7. Neil Best - Staying

8. Ollie Frost - Leaving

9. Shaun Perry - Leaving

10. Danny Gray – Staying

11. John Clarke - Staying

12. Josh Matavesi - Staying

3 from 3 so far "confirmed"?

Neil Best is going, I asked him and he said he's off. Wouldn't say where though!

You had to ruin my success didn't you ha ha

He was an outside bet for 1 extra season based on the amount of times he has kept Betty out of the side, though that may just be us playing him to try and get him to sign up

Not 'confirmed' yet Phill as not on the offy

I would imagine Besty came on a good salary which won't have been offered this time around.

1. Tevita Taumoepeau - Leaving

2. Rob O'Donnell - Staying

3. Ceri Jones - Leaving

4. Aleki Lutui - Staying

5. Ollie Hayes - Staying

6. Craig Gillies - Staying

7. Neil Best - Staying

8. Ollie Frost - Leaving

9. Shaun Perry - Leaving

10. Danny Gray – Staying

11. John Clarke - Staying

12. Josh Matavesi - Staying

4 from 4 so far Gillies Staying

[www.worcesternews.co.uk]

This article confirms that Cowan wasn't offered a new contract, a pattern very similar, it would appear from the outside, to that of Goode's departure.

It seems to me that this season's leavers mostly fall into two categories: those who Worcester wanted to keep and those who they didn't. (Cases such as Dave are obviously outside such categorisation.)

Is it right to infer that the only two players that the club wanted to stay were Mullan and Kevesic and that all the others are to be replaced by players coming in who the management feel are better, younger or who fit the required profile for their position?

It could be that the situation of some players is that they will be / have been offered new, short term contracts late in the negotiating season because although not quite fitting the new "vision" nothing better has come along.

So perhaps there are three categories: Keep but can't; let go; keep unless we can find better. I suspect that one or two long serving Warriors will be in the latter category.

It has been Tweeted that we are singing Mike Williams a South African 22 year old lock...



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:03:26:13:28:30 by WarriorPhill.

The Link is to a Michael Williams??

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Got you excited there didn't I?!

But sounds like a good prospect..

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Tom Guest has just tweeted that Mike Williams' agents have announced his 2 year deal with Worcester Warriors!

List updated to today's news.

The Fisser files being as useful as ever in not having a blind clue but printing it anyway have stated this week that we are signing 2 South Arfican players, one is a winger. Fisser has also not provided any names proving what a fine gossip journalist he is.

WBW; He or She has been about 80% correct so far in the predictions we have seen. SO--- there might be some truth in it!

I hope its Willie Le Roux, the SA Wing.

Quote:

Old Westie
WBW; He or She has been about 80% correct so far in the predictions we have seen. SO--- there might be some truth in it!

But when you link every out of contract player with every club you will get it right.

Updated the last list for Stephenson's signing.

Still a few more to come I reckon

Worth adding Dean Ryan? ;-)

And taking off Hill.

Just for you Phill

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

5. Paul Andrew - New signing announced 18/3/13 from Pirates. Position Loose Head

6. Ofa Fainga'anuku - New signing announced 21/3/13 from Glasgow. Position Loose Head.

7. Mike Williams - New signing announced 27/3/13 from Blue Bulls, SA on a reported 2 yr contract. Position Lock/Blind side

8. James Stephenson - New signing announced 5/4/13 from Bedford on a reported 3 yr contract. Position winger

9. Dean Ryan - New DOR announced 17/4/13 from Sky.

UNCONFIRMED

1. Tevita Taumoepeau (Assumed 1yr contract due to age)

2. Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

3. Ceri Jones

4. Neil Best

5. Ollie Frost

6. Shaun Perry

7. Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

8. John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

9. Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

10. Ollie Hayes - New contract announced 18/3/13, no length announced.

11. Craig Gillies - New contract announced 20/3/13, no length length announced.

LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

8. Nikki Walker - Confirmed released from contract to move to Edinburgh 26/3/13

9. Richard Hill - Contract terminated 16/4/13

10. Aleki Lutui - Confrimed signed for Edinburgh 24/4/13


So, as of 24th April 2013 we have:

1 New DOR
8 NEW Player Signings
11 Re-signed Players
9 Unconfirmed Players
9 Confirmed Players Leaving
1 Confirmed Head Coach Left



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:04:24:18:11:32 by Old 7.

I thought Big Dave had now been confirmed? Wasn't it amongst the news of him taking the club to court?

Do you have a link? I saw a legal action story in the WN but nothing on the offy confirming his leaving/retirement/contract termination etc.

Spoke to Aleki after the game today. He told me that he hasn't been offered anew contract and is going to Edinburgh next season

That's true, he has signed a contract with another club for two seasons. Will be announced in the coming week. Mr Perry isn't signing on either but no confirmed move for next season yet.
Big Dave definitely isn't playing for us next season, he had his leaving party last night.

Just waiting for the official confirmation from the club.

That still leaves O'Donnell, Ceri Jones and Frost unaccounted for.

An update on my predictions:

1. Tevita Taumoepeau - Leaving - Confirmed

2. Rob O'Donnell - Staying - Not heard anything new?

3. Ceri Jones - Leaving - Not heard anything new?

4. Aleki Lutui - Staying - Leaving

5. Ollie Hayes - Staying - Confirmed

6. Craig Gillies - Staying - Confirmed

7. Neil Best - Staying - Leaving

8. Ollie Frost - Leaving - Not heard anything new?

9. Shaun Perry - Leaving - Confirmed

10. Danny Gray – Staying - Confirmed

11. John Clarke - Staying - Confirmed

12. Josh Matavesi - Staying- Confirmed

Though the majority of the "confirmed" are from players not the club.
There are more changes at academy level to be announced too. Not sure when these will become official though?!

Updated for Aleki.

Still plenty to be done IMO

Old 7 might be worth doing and copy and paste so the list is at the bottom of the page.
I think there is going to be some serious shopping and further ins and outs in the not too distant future!

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

5. Paul Andrew - New signing announced 18/3/13 from Pirates. Position Loose Head

6. Ofa Fainga'anuku - New signing announced 21/3/13 from Glasgow. Position Loose Head.

7. Mike Williams - New signing announced 27/3/13 from Blue Bulls, SA on a reported 2 yr contract. Position Lock/Blind side

8. James Stephenson - New signing announced 5/4/13 from Bedford on a reported 3 yr contract. Position winger

9. Dean Ryan - New DOR announced 17/4/13 from Sky.

UNCONFIRMED

1. Tevita Taumoepeau (Had a leaving party but no confirmation from the club)

2. Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

3. Ceri Jones

4. Neil Best

5. Ollie Frost

6. Danny Gray (Believed to be in middle of 2yr contract ref Phill)

7. John Clarke (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

8. Josh Matavesi (Assumed in middle of a 2yr contract but cannot verify)

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

10. Ollie Hayes - New contract announced 18/3/13, no length announced.

11. Craig Gillies - New contract announced 20/3/13, no length length announced.

LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

8. Nikki Walker - Confirmed released from contract to move to Edinburgh 26/3/13

9. Richard Hill - Contract terminated 16/4/13

10. Aleki Lutui - Confrimed signed for Edinburgh 24/4/13

11. Shaun Perry - Confirmed retired through injury 1/5/13


So, as of 1st May 2013 we have:

1 New DOR
8 NEW Player Signings
11 Re-signed Players
8 Unconfirmed Players
10 Confirmed Players Leaving
1 Confirmed Head Coach Left



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:01:20:25:03 by Old 7.

So 8 in, 9 out and pretty certain 5 more to go with them.

Leaves room for 4/5 more to come in?

usa, that depends on what money is available to Ryan.

When you look at the players leaving (Goode, Mullan, TT, Lutui, Walker) and those rumoured to be going (Best, Perry) there is a fair wedge of cash being freed up there.

With the exception of Murray (who is our marquee player) those we have signed so far don't seem to be anywhere near as expensive (even the Argentinians, who are probably on a reduced wage to take account of the Rugby Championship and AIs).

Depending on who else might be coming in there could be room for 7 or 8 more.

Whatever you do, do it safely!

Quite! Particularly as its been stated that Ryan is getting money to spend. Gonna be an interesting summer.

The speed DR needs to go shopping for these, my guess, 6 new players, it's going to be like watching Supermarket Sweep!

Throwing them into trolleys as Dale Winton commentates? Hope they show it live!

Updated for Shaun Perry

Best is leaving according to Alex Grove on twitter.

So, if we take the announcements at the end of season dinner as valid, we are now in this position

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

5. Paul Andrew - New signing announced 18/3/13 from Pirates. Position Loose Head

6. Ofa Fainga'anuku - New signing announced 21/3/13 from Glasgow. Position Loose Head.

7. Mike Williams - New signing announced 27/3/13 from Blue Bulls, SA on a reported 2 yr contract. Position Lock/Blind side

8. James Stephenson - New signing announced 5/4/13 from Bedford on a reported 3 yr contract. Position winger

9. Dean Ryan - New DOR announced 17/4/13 from Sky.

10. Chris Brooker - New signing announced 23/5/13 from Quins on a reported 2yr contract. Position hooker

11. Jonathan Thomas - New signing announced 28/5/13 from Ospreys. 2 yr contract according to the Rugby Paper. Position Back row

UNCONFIRMED

1.Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

2.Ceri Jones

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.

10. Ollie Hayes - New contract announced 18/3/13, no length announced.

11. Craig Gillies - New contract announced 20/3/13, no length length announced.

LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

8. Nikki Walker - Confirmed released from contract to move to Edinburgh 26/3/13

9. Richard Hill - Contract terminated 16/4/13

10. Aleki Lutui - Confrimed signed for Edinburgh 24/4/13

11. Shaun Perry - Confirmed retired through injury 1/5/13

12. Tevita Taumoepeau - Confirmed at EOS Dinner

13. Neil Best - Confirmed at EOS Dinner

14. Ollie Frost - Confirmed at EOS Dinner


So, as of 28th May 2013 we have:

1 New DOR
10 NEW Player Signings
11 Re-signed Players
2 Unconfirmed Players
13 Confirmed Players Leaving
1 Confirmed Head Coach Left


Assuming the unconfirmed players are staying ,this leaves a squad of just 36 players consisting of

3 Tight Heads - Murray, Andress, O'Donnell
4 Loose Heads - Jones, Fainga'anuku, Andrew, Porter
4 Hookers - Creevy, Shervington, Hayes, Brooker
5 Locks - Jones, Percival, Gillies, Schofield, Williams
5 Back Row - Abbot, Betty, Taulava, Senatore, DeCarpentier, Thomas
2 Scrum Halves - Arr, Hodgson
3 Fly Halves - Mieres, Warwick, Gray
4 Centres - Grove, Clarke, Matavesi, Fatiaki
5 Back Three - Lemi, Drauniniu, Pennell, Howard, Stephenson

I believe there are 9 Academy to support this squad, but i'm not sure if my info is up to date.

To me we are desperately short in the back row, scrum half and centres and could do with another hooker (Brooker sorted that)and wing.

I know DR said that if he could not get the right players he would manage with what he had, but is that possible?



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:29:16:35:04 by Old 7.

I hope they find a replacement for O'Donnell he has been a bit of a damp squid for a big man

Tight Head looks to be on the shoulders of Murray who does not play on Sundays and will be away for the Autumn Internationals and 6 nations

Agree we are short at 7, 8, 9, 12, 13 and I also feel we are short at 10 as Warick is more a 15 than 1o

JP

# TOGETHER
" SEMPER BELLATOR "

I think you need to add Stelling and Watkins to the first team squad. As for academy there must be loads being added, I think Huricane Run can add some names there but I know of a hooker and scrum half from NZ, Dickson, Elliott and Eden

What about Dacres?

If the gaps are apparent to posters here, I am sure that they wouldn't have escaped both the new and old management at Sixways.

In fact, as I have mentioned elsewhere, my memory tells me that Richard Hill had a list of positions to fill some weeks ago which mirrors the gaps.

Whilst reports from the Dean Ryan evening and in the press seem to say that he would manage with what he had, unless he could find better, what was not made clear is whether there are any unannounced arrivals, arrivals who have been signed up but the news kept back until the dust of appointing the new coaching team has settled.

In other words, it could be, possibly, might be, perhaps, that there are several new players already in the pipeline to fill the gaps.

Dean Ryan said he would olny bring in players if they were the right fit or else he would make do.. Not that he would make do.

Warriors Rugby Supporters Club

Updated for Brooker

Updated for JT

The Rugby Paper reported a 2 year deal for Thomas

Quote:

WarriorPhill
The Rugby Paper reported a 2 year deal for Thomas

Thanks Phill, updated.

Any news on Ceri Jones, i'm sure he's out of contract?

As I posted in the thread about him, I heard he was staying but not sure what impact his latest injury will have on that. So no update really lol

12 or 13 players coming in according to DR last night so one or two announcements left in the pipeline ?

The senior squad page has been updated on Warriors website

Link

Ceri Jones still listed so suppose that puts that question to bed.

The squad is not quite right though. Missing Ben Howard

WP, Ben Howard currently showing under Academy

I know northstand, that's what is wrong. He is in the first team squad now

May be, just may be its a cunning plan

About to update the list for Su'a, Goodhue and Becasseau

But using up a couple of posts to ensure the list is at the top of page 3.

So, if we take the announcements at the end of season dinner as valid, we are now in this position

NEW ARRIVALS

1. Leonardo Senatore - New signing announced 23/1/13 from Toulon. No length but agent announced 2yrs on Twitter. Argentinian international, Position 6/8

2. Paul Warwick - New signing announced 25/1/13 from Stade. Position predominately 10 also 15

3. Augustin Creevy - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Montpellier. Position Hooker

4. Ignacio Mieres - New signing announced 6/2/13 from Exeter. Position Fly Half

5. Paul Andrew - New signing announced 18/3/13 from Pirates. Position Loose Head

6. Ofa Fainga'anuku - New signing announced 21/3/13 from Glasgow. Position Loose Head.

7. Mike Williams - New signing announced 27/3/13 from Blue Bulls, SA on a reported 2 yr contract. Position Lock/Blind side

8. James Stephenson - New signing announced 5/4/13 from Bedford on a reported 3 yr contract. Position winger

9. Dean Ryan - New DOR announced 17/4/13 from Sky.

10. Chris Brooker - New signing announced 23/5/13 from Quins on a reported 2yr contract. Position hooker

11. Jonathan Thomas - New signing announced 28/5/13 from Ospreys. 2 yr contract according to the Rugby Paper. Position Back row

12. Jeremy Su'a - New signing announced 7/6/13 from Canterbury Crusaders. No length announced. Position Scrum Half

13. Cameron Goohue - New signing announced 10/6/13 from Auckland Blues. No length announced. Position Back Row (predominantly 8).

14. Jeremy Becasseau - New signing announced 26/6/13 from Stade Francais. No length announced. Position prop (assumed loose head as mentioned as cover for injured Porter).

UNCONFIRMED

1.Rob O'Donnell (Information from player)

2.Ceri Jones

SIGNED ON

1. Ewan Murray - New 2yr contract announced 30/1/13

2. George Porter - New contract announced 29/1/13

3. Edd Shervington - New contract announced 29/1/13

4. Sam Betty - New contract announced 29/1/13

5. Richard DeCarpentier - New contract announced 29/1/13

6. Jonny Arr - New contract announced 25/1/13

7. Josh Drauniniu - New contract announced 16/1/13, no length anounced but discloses 2 yrs in interview with worcester News

8. Chris Pennell - New contract announced 23/1/13 no length announced but implied 2yrs in radio interview.

9. Ben Howard - New contract announced 20/2/13, no length announced. Not sure if still classed as academy player.



LEAVING

1. Matt Mullan - Confirmed signed for Wasps 28/1/13

2. Matt Kvesic - Confirmed signed for Glous 6/2/13

3. Blair Cowan - Confirmed signed for Irish 14/3/12

4. Andy Goode - Confirmed signed for Wasps 5/3/13

5. Joey Carlisle - Confirmed signed for Wasps 20/2/13

6. Andy Short - Confirmed signed for Bristol 30/1/13

7. Errie Claassens - Confirmed leaving for Bristol 25/1/13

8. Nikki Walker - Confirmed released from contract to move to Edinburgh 26/3/13

9. Richard Hill - Contract terminated 16/4/13

10. Aleki Lutui - Confrimed signed for Edinburgh 24/4/13

11. Shaun Perry - Confirmed retired through injury 1/5/13

12. Tevita Taumoepeau - Confirmed at EOS Dinner

13. Neil Best - Confirmed at EOS Dinner

14. Ollie Frost - Confirmed at EOS Dinner

15. Ollie Hayes - Confirmed signed for Bristol 1/7/13

16. Craig Gillies - New contract announced 20/3/13. Confirmed retiring 5/7/13.




So, as of 5th July 2013 we have:

1 New DOR
13 NEW Player Signings
10 Re-signed Players
2 Unconfirmed Players
16 Confirmed Players Leaving
3 new coaches

Assuming the unconfirmed players are staying ,the squad now stands at 36 players consisting of

3 Tight Heads - Murray, Andress, O'Donnell
5 Loose Heads - Jones, Fainga'anuku, Andrew, Porter, Becasseau
3 Hookers - Creevy, Shervington, Brooker
5 Locks - Jones, Percival, Schofield, Williams
7 Back Row - Abbot, Betty, Taulava, Senatore, DeCarpentier, Thomas, Goodhue
3 Scrum Halves - Arr, Hodgson, Su'a
3 Fly Halves - Mieres, Warwick, Gray
4 Centres - Grove, Clarke, Matavesi, Fatiaki
4 Back Three - Lemi, Drauniniu, Pennell, Stephenson

There are 12 Academy to support this squad. I thought Howard had been promoted to the senior squad when he signed a new contract in Feb, but looking back at the articles, I could not find any confirmation.

I had stated that I felt we were desperately short in the back row, scrum half and centres and could do with another hooker and wing. We appear to have addressed back row, scrum half and hooker



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:06:18:32:23 by Old 7.

Looks like the list needs to be updated yet again :-S

Done. Any more on the horizon?

Yup ;-)

Old 7 - I think it might be time to create a 2014 version of this thread.

Could do Phill, but the club's policy over the last couple of years of not announcing contract lengths will make accuracy difficult. I could assume 2 year contracts as a starting point.

Probably best and just note which ones are assumptions?!