ENGLAND centre and Worcester Warriors' Ollie Lawrence is the first player from the club to speak out regarding the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the club's financial situation.

The club's accounts are currently frozen due to the winding-up petition issued by HMRC last week over an unpaid tax bill.

Mr Lawrence fears the legacy created by Cecil Duckworth CBE "is close to being tarnished".

Owners Colin Goldring and Jason Whittingham said they are "working through a number of options" with advisors.

Mr Lawrence, age 22, said: "Before anyone decides to state or complain that I’m slating the reputation of the people that pay our wages, I’m really not.

"They invested in the club and tried to “create change” so I can’t fault that. But Cecil Duckworth created a legacy for this club, and that is close to being tarnished currently.

"There just comes a point where people’s careers, livelihoods and families are being affected. Which I believe that should be answered for.

"I have nothing but respect for the whole players and staff for continuing to pitch up everyday with all this uncertainty.

"The rumour mill will continue, but it’s above us now as to what happens, but for now we’ll crack on as a team and wait to see what unfolds."

The club statement said: “There has been much speculation and rumour circulating in the media and among our supporters about the future of Worcester Warriors.

“Over the past week a lot of work has been done away from the media spotlight to try to navigate the club through the challenges that we currently face.

“That work continues, discussions are on-going and we are reviewing the options available to the club.

“We continue to work closely with HMRC, Premiership Rugby, the RFU and DCMS to find the best solution to the situation.

“We are very grateful for the support these organisations have shown to the club.

“We are now working through a number of options with our advisors.

“These include solutions for keeping rugby at Sixways and we will communicate further as soon as a decision has been finalised.

“We are grateful to our staff, supporters, partners, sponsors and suppliers for their commitment, loyalty and support during what has been a difficult period for all involved in the club.

“We also greatly appreciate the messages of concern and support that we have received from across the rugby world and the wider sporting community.”