WORCESTER Rugby Club today completed the signing of Russell Earnshaw.

The openside flanker finalised his move this morning and could go straight into the squad for the Warriors' National One clash at home to Otley on Saturday.

Earnshaw was released from his Rotherham contract yesterday and Worcester's director of rugby John Brain wasted no time in signing the 28-year-old until the end of the season.

Brain has been looking for cover in the back row ever since summer signing Dean Thomas left Sixways and, when he knew Earnshaw was available, he acted quickly to kill off interest from a number of clubs including Exeter Chiefs.

Earnshaw has struggled to get a look in under the new South African management at Millmoor this season and knew his number was up when Steph Nel brought in Ryno van der Merwe last month.

With Worcester's only specialist openside flanker Gavin Pfister struggling with a shoulder injury, Brain was pleased to snap up such quality.

"We're delighted with Russell's signing," said Brain. "We've had an eye on the market for a while now because of our situation in the back row.

"We know all about Russell and his qualities and know what he will bring to the squad. He's a specialist number seven who has Premiership experience but, more importantly, is vastly experienced at National One level.

"He was Rotherham's first choice seven in their championship team last season so he knows exactly what is required to win the title at this level.

"I think that since the management changed at Rotherham his face hasn't fitted and he was keen to get away to play some rugby again."

With Pfister currently fit, Brain has some real selection dilemmas ahead of the Otley clash and the promotion shootout with Orrell on January 17.

"That's why we've brought in Russell," added Brain. "Throughout the team we have good competition for places and now we have it for the number seven spot. If Russell's registration goes through in time then he will be in the squad for Otley.

"He's everything you would want in a seven. He's got good hands, is physical and is excellent at the breakdown. His signing will give everyone a lift as we go into a crucial period."

n Russell Earnshaw talks about his move exclusively in tomorrow's Evening News.