WORCESTER Warriors have agreed one-year deals with prop pair Mike MacDonald and Tevita Taumoepeau.

The front-row duo have been on trial at Sixways and director of rugby John Brain secured the services of both for the coming season, with the option of an extension.

But MacDonald, an American international, was in hospital yesterday after he hurt his neck in training.

Brain said: "He's got all the feeling in his limbs. It was just a collapsed scrum so we put him on a spinal board and we are waiting for a report."

MacDonald is a loose-head but can operate on either side of the front row. Taumoepeau is a specialist tight-head.

Brain said: "We've seen enough to form an initial judgement and it strengthens us in that area, especially with Chris Horsman likely to be involved in internationals.

"There's six props at the club but if they are all fit at any one time you could expect one of those guys to be out on loan. You do need strength in depth."

Taumoepeau is the brother of All-Black prop Saimone and played for Northampton Saints under current New Zealand assistant coach Wayne Smith.

The Pacific Islander left Franklin's Gardens in 2004 and played for French club Montpellier last season.

MacDonald has 35 caps for the US Eagles and was captain of the 2004 All-American squad, which toured Canada.

Worcester, meanwhile, will be without Shane Drahm and Uche Odouza for Saturday's pre-season friendly at Llanelli.

The pair are not 100 per cent fit after returning from knee and toe injuries.