IF he was playing for a top-six side he’d be in the England EPS squad” – that is Dean Ryan’s lofty assessment of on-song Warriors full-back Chris Pennell.

The academy graduate and former captain has been one of Worcester’s stand-out performers so far this season and Sixways director of rugby Ryan has backed him to win higher honours.

Pennell is the type of player Ryan wants to build his Warriors side around and has been impressed by the 26-year-old’s all-round professionalism.

Ryan said: “I think Chris is outstanding and if he can keep on like he is, England head coach Stuart Lancaster can’t ignore him.

“He’s right up there, but we’re not a top-six side, so we don’t necessarily give him the platform to demonstrate his talents.

“To be playing that well at a time when we’re not necessarily firing on all cylinders is full credit to him. I think he is a brilliant professional and some of our best attacking platforms are coming through him and his kick return.”

The Warriors boss added: “He is ingrained in everything about this club having come through the academy and he helps take the club forward. He’s been through some tough times with injury, so he deserves both a run of form and recognition for that.

“He’s had chances to go elsewhere two or three years ago, but he’s made a choice to stay here and take the club forward, which is outstanding but something I’m not surprised by. I’m just delighted he’s in top form.”