WORCESTER Warriors’ players had “mixed feelings” over Dean Ryan’s decision to quit Sixways, revealed head coach Carl Hogg.

News of Ryan’s departure was broken to the playing staff this morning while they were also informed Hogg would be taking over first-team duties.

“We have spoken to the players — I haven’t had a lot of time with them — but there’s a bit of mixed feelings,” said Hogg.

“Dean was the figurehead of the business and the one who sold the vision but that vision hasn’t changed.

“He was the storyteller but the challenge is still the same. I think we have moved hugely over the past three years and we will continue to move forward.

“Dean was originally the guy who brought me down from Scotland to Gloucester. I have huge respect for him. Things happen in business and we have to move on and move quickly.

“A lot of the platforms we are moving from Dean has put in place, but it was a joint vision with the club and I and we are in a position where we can move forward.”

Warriors finished 10th in the Premiership last term and will be boosted by the arrivals of England centre Ben Te’o, Jackson Willison, Will Spencer and Matt Williams.

Hogg said: “We have outstanding facilities and have built a playing group that can be competitive.

“We know the challenges of the Premiership.

“It’s a tough competition with tight margins and we know we will have to make small, steady, incremental steps but the challenge is still the same.

“I am really excited about the opportunity to lead a side in the Premiership.”