MIKE Williams could step in for Warriors in tomorrow’s crunch Aviva Premiership clash against Sale Sharks (2pm) following the suspension of Jonathan Thomas.

The Worcester skipper was handed a one-week ban by a RFU tribunal after his red card in Saturday’s 30-14 defeat at Northampton Saints.

Thomas was hauled before the panel in Coventry for striking Sam Dickinson, who was shown a yellow card for his part in the incident.

Unless appealed, it means the Welsh international will miss the crucial match with Sale at Sixways as Warriors try to dig their way out of the relegation mire.

A statement from bottom-of-the-table Warriors, who have lost all 14 league games this season, said: “The club is waiting for a written judgement while they consider their next steps.”

Williams was not involved against Saints but played at flanker in the 23-22 defeat to Leicester Tigers earlier this month and could get the nod to replace Thomas.

Vice-captain Chris Pennell would likely take over the armband against Sharks.

Director of rugby Dean Ryan said: “Mike didn’t play last week so we’ve brought him back in fresh. He played very well at six so that gives us a little bit of flexibility.”

Meanwhile, Worcester’s Heather Fisher represents England women in this weekend’s IRB World Sevens Series round in Brazil.

They have again drawn world champions New Zealand and Ireland in their pool alongside the USA.