ANDY Keast has labelled new signing Drew Hickey 'The best back row forward in National One by a country mile.'

Worcester Rugby Club's coach has been delighted with the new signings that began training last week and admits that he cannot wait to see Hickey in a Warriors' shirt.

"He's a very skilful player with a great rugby brain," said Keast. "He's the best back row forward in this league by a country mile. I'm delighted to have him at the club because he will make a big impact. He's got great skills but he's also got the physicality to go with it.

"I've had existing squad players come to me and say 'how did you manage to get these players'. That's the sort of impression they have made already.

"I think the squad are very happy to see the players come in because they know they are quality. They know it will give us a better chance of success this season."

"The new guys have certainly trained extremely hard. They have impressed me."