IYRAN Clunis already feels at home at Worcester despite his recent move.
The 18-year-old hooker was in the same under 19 England squad along with Chris Hallam, Will Bowley, Mark Hopley and Rhodri McAtee last season while he knows James Percival and Neil Mason from previous get-togethers.
And after his summer switch from London Irish, the youngster feels Worcester is perfect for him to realise his potential.
"Last year the academy made the under 19s final against London Irish - I was playing against Worcester that day," he said.
"There are a lot of players coming through at Worcester. They had a number of guys in the England under-19 and under-21 squad so the youth talent is definitely at Sixways. I'm contracted as a first team player and will be training with the first team squad.
"Training with people who have been there and done it can only improve you.
"Looking around and seeing people like Werner Swanepoel is great. Anything they can pass on, I am looking to learn off them.
"This is a great opportunity for me at Worcester. I'm just looking forward to getting into the season and proving myself to the coaches."
On paper, Clunis looks to be behind Chris Hall and Ben Daly for a starting spot but Clunis, despite his young age, is unfazed by the competition.
"Everyone's the same at the end of the day," he added. "We're all team-mates now and I'm looking to impress and play for Worcester. That has to be the aim."
"Worcester seemed the right place for me to develop. Knowing many of the players will help and with the facilities here, it seemed the most sensible move."
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