ARGENTINIAN international Alejandro Moreno is the latest star to sign up for Worcester Rugby Club's promotion challenge.

The prop, who has won three caps for the Pumas, came to Sixways for a trial at the beginning of last season but was already contracted to play in Italy for a year.

Now a free agent, the powerful 28-year-old has strengthened Worcester's front row by signing a one-year deal.

Moreno, however, will find competition tough with established props Tony Windo and Neil Lyman having forged a strong partnership last season and with Andy Collins also fighting for a first-team spot.

The Argentinian is renowned as a ball-playing prop and will give Worcester's management different options when the season gets under way.

Chief executive Geoff Cooke believes Moreno can provide real competition for places in the pack as Worcester look to finally achieve the dream of Premiership rugby.

He said: "He is a very strong, physical sort of player, but with good ball handling skills.

"We were really impressed with him when he came to the club at the beginning of last season but were disappointed when he could not sign.

"He is a big man -- as tough as teak -- and will certainly give us a very secure platform to play on with the scrummage and line-outs. I think we have four very good props now for next season.

"He speaks English very well so communication with other players will not be a problem."

With one eye on the future, Worcester have also snapped up a young English prop to further strengthen their squad.

George Davies has left big-spending Bristol to continue his rugby education at Sixways and Cooke is backing the 20-year-old to blossom.

He added: "A lot of observers believe he has the ability to go on and play for England. He's been on Bristol's books and he comes with a big reputation for such a young lad.

"It's good news that we are attracting the best young English talent and of course, bodes well for the future of the club."

n England's triumphant youngsters flew into Vancouver last night with hooker Dorian West warning them not to become complacent following their 22-10 first Test victory over Canada.

West, who was among the try-scorers on Saturday, said: "Canada have some class players who would get in to most international sides.

"I am sure they will re-group and come back twice as hard."