PAT Sanderson says Warriors must be at their very best if they are to celebrate his new contract with victory over local rivals Gloucester.

The Worcester skipper handed his side a massive boost this week by agreeing to a two-year extension to his current deal, which was due to expire at the end of the forthcoming campaign.

A full house will roar their approval at Sixways on Sunday (3pm) but San-derson knows that Gloucester are more than capable of spoiling the party.

"I think that Gloucester look to have strengthened their squad considerably and they are going to be a real threat," he said.

"I think that to play here at Sixways in front of a full house with the passionate support we've got against the team from down the road is a great event to be involved in for anybody.

"Those are the sort of events that as players you wish to play in. But we're under no illusions. This Gloucester side is a very good one.

"It looks to be improved from last year and if we want to get a result at the weekend we will have to be at our very, very best because they have got so much talent in the side."

Sanderson was offered the extension after leading Worcester to ninth place in the table last year following his move from NEC Harlequins.

While his former club were relegated, Warriors recovered from a shaky start to secure their Premiership status and Sanderson was rewarded by being named captain of England's triumphant Churchill Cup squad.

For now, the 27-year-old flanker is concentrating on Sunday's showdown. And back-row partner Drew Hickey is also licking his lips at the prospect of tackling the West Country side.

He said: "Gloucester at home. It's what you play for, big games like that. A great club, great history and if you look at their back line, their forwards, they've got internationals everywhere, a lot more so than we do.

"If you ever want a test up front to see how tough you are then there it is."