IN-FORM flanker Matti Williams is among a number of fringe players pushing their case for Premiership selection.

That’s the view of Worcester Warriors academy coach Gordon Ross who reckoned utility back Scott van Breda, prop Ethan Waller, centre Wynand Olivier and wingers Dean Hammond and Tom Howe were also deserving of a shot in the top flight.

Since Warriors’ last league game against Bristol Bears in early October director of rugby Alan Solomons gave the rest of his squad and some academy aces chances to prove themselves over the next five weeks.

Worcester extended their winning streak to five games with victories in the European Challenge Cup and Premiership Cup before losing 34-22 at Saracens on Sunday.

And Ross, who coached the team against Sarries, felt his troops did their hopes of being in the frame for Warriors’ Premiership trip to Bath on Saturday (12.45pm) the “power of good”.

“When the senior guys have played they have done extremely well,” Ross said.

“There is some real firepower in that (Premiership) group at the moment but considering the way those guys went (at Saracens) they will be ready if an opportunity arises.

“Hopefully at some point over the next few weeks they will get a chance.

“Without any shadow of a doubt they will do themselves justice as they did on Sunday.”

One player that has impressed Ross has been energetic loose forward Williams.

The ex-hooker played in the wins over Stade Francais and Ospreys before crossing the whitewash in the victory against Sale Sharks and the defeat at Sarries.

“He is one of the main guys who has brought energy to the group,” Ross said.

“He gives guys a big boost and was outstanding on Sunday.

“He was not the only one as there were a lot of good efforts on the pitch but he obviously stood out.”

Ross also singled out several other players he felt were forcing their way into contention ahead of Worcester’s return to league action.

“Scott is a really good rugby player,” Ross said.

“He had a go at 10 having not played for a long time and was excellent.

“Guys like Dean and Tom did some really good things as well.

“You have also got the experience of Wynand and Ethan came on and did a great job.

“You could probably go through the whole team as I am so proud of them all.”

Warriors missed the chance to secure their place in the semi-finals at the weekend but remain in a strong position as they lead Pool Two on points difference from Saracens.

The winners of each pool progress to the last four along with the highest-placed runner-up.

Worcester’s final group game comes in early February when they host Wasps in the competition’s 'Derby Day’ fixture.

“Speaking to the guys after that (Sarries) game they just want to keep playing, improving and winning,” Ross added.

“We want to win every game and that’s the challenge for the group.

“The boys were told in no uncertain terms that we expected them to perform and they did that so we have got to be really pleased with that.”