WORCESTER Warriors have offered full-time academy contracts to its England Under 19 World Cup trio, Matthew Mullan, Sam Macdonald and Chris Pennell.

The Worcester players were an integral part of the England squad which claimed a creditable third spot, the highest position they have achieved.

The trio have enjoyed a successful season at both club and international level, being regular members of Worcester's competitive `A' league squad and excelling on the international stage.

Matthew Cox is another of Worcester's young talents to sign a full-time academy contract. He was recognised at England's U18 level and introduced to the U19 set-up, winning his first cap in the Four Nations Championship.

Cox was also placed on stand-by to join his team- mates for the IRB World Cup.

In addition, Worcester's academy has also signed up-and-coming star Jordan Page. The 18-year-old former Leeds Tykes hooker has signed full-time academy papers with the club and brings with him a wealth of experience from the U19 World Cup side.

Andrew Stanley, Worcester's academy manager, said: "We are delighted to have retained all four of the boys as they made excellent progress at both club and international level last year.

"We are also pleased that Jordan has decided to come to Worcester. I am sure he will enjoy the environment."