INFLUENTIAL scrum-half Francois Hougaard is “expected” to be involved in Worcester Warriors’ Aviva Premiership opener against all-conquering Saracens.

The 28-year-old South African is preparing for the Springboks Sevens’ bid for gold at the Rio Olympics next month.

Rugby sevens returns to the Olympics for the first time in 92 years with the men’s tournament from August 9 to 11.

Worcester head coach Carl Hogg says he expects Hougaard back at Sixways for their clash against European and Premiership Championships Saracens at Twickenham on Saturday, September 3 (2pm).

“Francois is away in Rio but we expect him back for the first game of the season,” said Hogg.

“We wish Franny (Hougaard) all the best and I think it’s a great opportunity to represent your country in the Olympics, which is something new to rugby and new to sevens but what a fantastic opportunity it is for him in Rio.”

Hougaard’s Springboks begin their Olympic tournament against minnows Spain on August 9 and face France in their second pool match later that day.

South Africa meet Australia in their third pool match and will be aiming for the knockout stages in Brazil which conclude with the final on August 11.

Hougaard, who has won 35 Test caps for the Springboks, played nine times for Warriors after arriving at Sixways in February.

He linked up with close friend Wynand Olivier, a former South African international, and had a major influence in Warriors winning a club-record four successive Premiership matches and finishing 10th.

However, Hougaard missed Worcester’s final Premiership game of last term against Sarries due to his involvement with the Springbok sevens.

Hougaard was the Premiership player of the month for March and the first-ever Warrior to win the coveted honour.

He was also named in the BT Sport Aviva Premiership Rugby Dream Team and has signed a long-term contract at Sixways.