CENTRE Jon Clarke is predicting an ‘angry’ clash between Worcester Warriors and his former club Northampton Saints when the two sides meet in the Aviva Premiership at Sixways on Saturday (3pm).

Warriors haven’t won in the league since they beat London Welsh 13-6 at Sixways before Christmas and suffered a disappointing 32-9 defeat at Bath on Saturday, while Saints were handed a 27-11 towelling by Gloucester at Franklin’s Gardens last time out.

Northampton boss Jim Mallinder has said his side have to win this weekend, but Clarke insists Worcester are equally determined to return to winning ways.

He said: “We suffered a big disappointment at Sixways against Saracens in the LV= Cup and we are desperate to make up for it. We had played really well here, especially in the league, and got some good wins.

“Northampton will come here after losing in their own backyard, so both teams will be angry.

“Both teams want to move up and we have got to be up for it, our mind-set has got to be to get ready for a battle.

“They need the win and so do we. It will be an emotional day for me against my old club, it will be a weird week and it is not something I am used to — it’s a first for me.”

Clarke added: “It’s a massive game for the club and where we want to be. We have got to make up for the disappointment at Bath and my personal game against my old club is put to one side. It’s not about me, it’s about being a Warrior and getting the win.”