WORCESTER Rugby Club's determination to become a major force in the game has been underlined with the capture of former England star Ben Clarke.

Bath's favourite son, capped 40 times for his country, agreed terms last night and is expected to sign later this week in a move that continues Worcester's impressive summer recruitment drive.

The 33-year-old, however, is to come to Sixways purely as a player after deciding a coaching role was not for him just yet.

The number eight was released by Bath after their Zurich Championship grand final defeat by Leicester Tigers last month -- a game which saw new Worcester signing Winston Stanley enjoy a storming try-scoring match -- and has been considering his options ever since.

However, he has decided to join Worcester's ever increasing array of top-class talent as the National One club finally look to win promotion to the Zurich Premiership next season.

Owner Cecil Duckworth revealed that the ambition shown by Worcester was the key reason why Clarke snubbed a host of Premiership offers to choose Sixways.

"Ben was very impressed with the club's ambition and our vision for the future," Duckworth said.

"I think, if they didn't know before, his signing sends out a powerful message that we are serious about winning promotion. Last year it was difficult to attract this calibre of player with the uncertainty in the game but with that settled for next season, players know they can be part of something special here.

"Ben obviously has a vast amount of experience on and off the pitch and is a top class player who still has a lot to offer."

Clarke's arrival comes after the re-signing of Sixways favourite Jim Jenner and provides real competition for the number eight jersey. Duckworth, though, is confident that Clarke or Jenner could happily fill a flanker's role.

"We will have a fantastic back row next season, that's for sure. We are looking at the options and either Jim or Ben can play number six without any difficulty."

Clarke is the 12th player to join Worcester this summer after the signings of Jenner, Stanley, Elton Moncrieff, Joe Ross, Chris Bentley, Alejandro Moreno, George Davies, Chris Yates, Chris Garrard, Duncan Roke and Richard Smith.

Worcester have also appointed a new head coach in former Gloucester man John Brain and have announced that the management team will also be expanded.

Kiwi Peter Finch has been appointed fitness coach after a successful two-year stint at Kingsholm alongside Brain.