DEAN Schofield admits he is ‘back where he belongs’ after finally completing his move from Toulon to Worcester Warriors.

Your Worcester News revealed exactly a month ago that the former England and Sale Sharks lock would be swapping the south of France for Sixways and the deal has now been rubber-stamped.

Destructive second row Schofield, 6ft 6ins tall and weighing in at 20 stone, played 162 times for the Sharks and captained the side during the 2009/10 season, before opting for a season in the French Top 14. However, the Manchester-born 33-year-old is excited about the chance to play in the Aviva Premiership again and is keen to make a huge impact at Sixways.

He said: “I am looking forward to the move.

“I spent nine years in the Premiership with Sale, and I always hoped to be able to come back.

“It was good to experience life and rugby in France, it really intrigued me, but it’s good to be coming back to the English top flight. I feel I am coming back to where I belong.

“It’s been a really good experience for me at Toulon and to play in the Top 14.

“I have met good people over the two years and worked with some good coaches. I take a lot from this, both on and off the field.

“I have been lucky enough to play with some quality players at Toulon and I have certainly learnt a few things.

“I think the experience has been hugely beneficial to me.”

Schofield, who made his England debut against South Africa on the summer tour prior to the 2007 Rugby World Cup, was bowled over as soon as he spoke to the Warriors coaching staff and was sold on a move to Sixways.

He explained: “Worcester were the first club I spoke to about a move back to England and, after speaking to Richard Hill and Phil Davies, my mind was made up. I’m a loyal guy and, after I chatted with them, I told them I was coming.

“They spoke very well and told me about the vision for the club, what players they wanted over the next few years and what would be happening.

“What they said, and how they said it, spoke volumes to me.

“It struck a chord and they were straight down the line, which is how I want people to be.

“Coming to Warriors was a no-brainer after that.

“Everyone knows the facilities at Sixways are outstanding and what is also crucial is the support. Worcester have a great following, I have seen that first hand, and a cracking stadium.

“Any player would want to be part of that.”