ANDY Keast has backed new signing Brad MacLeod-Henderson to become a crowd favourite at Sixways.

Worcester Warriors' head coach put the finishing touches to the capture this morning as the newly-promoted club continued their summer shopping spree.

The 6ft 4in back row forward, who is comfortable at number eight or as an openside flanker, has become Worcester's seventh post-season signing after deciding to quit relegated Rotherham.

Keast has kept an eye on the South African since his days at Natal when he coached the Durban club seven years ago, and believes Worcester's latest recruit will have supporters off their seats next season.

"I've known him a long time now since my Natal days," said Keast. "Certainly, when he came over to Rotherham in December, we've been keeping a close eye on him and he's impressed me.

"He's a very athletic player and can play right across the back row. I think he'll be a big hit with the supporters because he's a talented player but also very physical. He's also similar to Drew Hickey in that he's a clever player so I have no doubts that he'll be a success for us."

The 28-year-old played 43 Currie Cup matches and 26 in Super 12 for the Sharks scoring eight tries for the club.

However, after not being offered a new deal in his homeland, he decided to try his hand in England. And despite Rotherham's poor display in the Premiership this season, Keast is confident that MacLeod-Henderson will stand out for Worcester.

"He has everything that you need in a modern-day number eight," he said. "After the start Rotherham had, it was so difficult to turn it around but Brad has done well for them.

"He is an experienced Super 12 player and will add a great deal to the squad. With his height, he gives us more options in the lineout."

Worcester have already brought in new signings Pat Sanderson, Clive Stuart-Smith, Siaosi Vaili, Dale Rasmussen, Tom Bowman and Phil Murphy ahead of their first season in the Premiership.