PHIL Davies’ Warriors departure must be looked upon as an opportunity for the club, insists Sixways head coach Richard Hill.

The former England scrum-half admits Davies, who will move to Cardiff Blues next season, will be very difficult to replace as he has forged such a strong bond with the Worcester forwards.

However, Hill believes the Sixways club provides an attractive proposition for Davies’ replacement and insists the players will be consulted over the new appointment.

Hill said: “You have to look at these situations as an opportunity. Phil will leave big shoes to fill as he has developed a very good rapport with the forwards here.

“It will be disappointing for me to see Phil go and also for the players. The search starts now for another forwards coach — it is a very sought-after post and this is a fantastic club. This is one of the best run clubs in the country and no shortage of people would want it.

“The forwards will come to terms with it and players are used to a change in coaches, and I will involve them in the decision-making process so they will be excited by the next person that comes in.

“There are lots of very good candidates out there that will want to come here; it will be a difficult one. But any decision will be for someone who will take the pack forward.”

Meanwhile, Hill has challenged home-grown centre Alex Grove to step up the mantle and replace the departing Dale Rasmussen as Warriors’ defensive captain.

“It will be sad to see Dale go,” added Hill. “But I have got to replace him with younger people who will be here for the long-term. It’s harsh but it is one of those decisions you have to make.Phil Larder will decide on the new defensive captain and there will be big competition for places over the summer. We have some big names coming in who will be vying for that role.

“Alex, you would say at the moment, is a natural successor. He understands the system inside out and has been a terrific defender for us, one of the best defenders in the 13 channel in the Premiership.”