SUMMER signing Simon Kerrod is close to making a welcome return for struggling Worcester Warriors.

And the 25-year-old prop’s quicker-than-expected recovery from an adductor injury looks set to end Worcester’s search for a new tighthead.

Kerrod, who has made the step up from the Championship after joining from Jersey Reds, sustained the damage in Warriors’ pre-season opener against Hartpury in early August.

According to previous timeframes, the front rower was not due back until November.

But director of rugby Gary Gold confirmed he was “a couple of weeks away” from being available for selection, meaning he could be back for Worcester's European Challenge Cup campaign which starts a week on Saturday against Brive.

“We have got some good news with Simon as he is looking to return a lot sooner than we thought,” Gold said.

“He is only a couple of weeks away which is a bit of a blessing.”

Gold is also pleased by the progress of Nick Schonert who is expected to make his comeback from an ankle injury in December.

With Schonert and Kerrod out, Biyi Alo, who has started Warriors’ last three games, and Gareth Milasinovich have been battling it out for the number three jersey.

Gold has spoken of his desire to strengthen the position with a new recruit, but with a Kerrod return on the horizon, the club's efforts appear to be over.

“Nick is coming on really nicely,” Gold said.

“His timelines are still not reduced, but he is seeing a specialist.

“In terms of recruiting anybody else we have not made any progress on that.”