TONY Windo has become a "Worcester man", according to John Brain.

The Warriors' director of rugby was delighted with the 36-year-old's form last season -- his first in the top flight for six years -- and has rewarded the prop with a new one-year deal.

And despite his Gloucester roots, Brain believes the loosehead is now Worcester through and through.

"He's come from Gloucester but he really is a Worcester man now," said Brain.

"He contributes an awful lot to the team and the squad. He's respected by everyone at the club and I just look forward to working with him.

"Nothing gives me greater pleasure than giving him a new deal every year."

Brain has watched Windo's career progress since his time at Gloucester and the subsequent move up the M5 in 1999.

"He gets better every season," added the former Kingsholm lock.

"He hardly ever misses a training session, he's taken to the new training regime very well and his body fat has gone down dramatically since he's been working with Phil Richards (Worcester's fitness coach).

"I think that speaks volumes for his attitude because he is always willing to learn and develop.

"He has re-established himself as a force in the Premiership in his mid-30s and we named him our player of the season this year.

"You have to earn your contracts at Worcester, you don't just get given one. So the fact that he has a new deal means that he is a valuable asset to the side.

"He looks after himself, is a good professional and a good man to have in the squad."

Meanwhile, Brain has confirmed that he will still be on the look-out for another prop, despite the signing of Emiliano Bergamaschi.

The Argentine can cover both sides of the front row but, following the retirement of Neil Lyman and the departure of Dylan Hartley to Northampton, Brain wants to strengthen.

"We are looking to bring in one more prop," he said. "We need to have quality throughout the squad next season."