WARRIORS winger James Stephenson is relishing the challenge of proving himself in a full-time environment.

The youngster joined Worcester from part-time Championship outfit Bedford Blues this summer and is getting used to the rigours of professional rugby.

“It’s extremely different to this time last season,” he admitted. “There’s probably more sessions in a day here than I had in a week at Bedford, which is good - I’m physically testing myself.

“But that’s what I’ve been working towards.

“I’ve wanted to be full-time for a long time so it’s been good.

“It’s a massive step up from the Championship but I’m really enjoying all the hard work.

“I’ve come straight off the back of last season and I’m feeling quite sharp. We’ll have a break for a week or so next month so that will help me as well.

“I’m glad I came in because I got the fitness testing done and I’ve shown where I am.

“Meeting the boys has been excellent and I’ve sorted out my living arrangements, so it’s good to get that out of the way.”

Stephenson went up against Premiership newcomers Newcastle Falcons for Bedford last term and expects them to be a competitive side in the top-flight.

He said: “It would have been amazing to finish on a high with Bedford, but Newcastle were the stand-out team from the outset so it was always going to be difficult.

“I think Newcastle will be competitive in the Premiership.

“They’ll feel they’ve done their time in the Championship and won’t want to go back down.”

Stephenson added: “I’m trying to keep a lid on it at the moment and not get too excited about the start of the season.

"It is a while away and there are a lot of gains to be made and foundations to be built before that.

“Hopefully, we’ll be a really fit, fast and strong side come the start of the season.

“Everyone is trying to show what they can do and there’s a good spirit in the camp.”