MATT Powell is warning Werner Swanepoel -- I'm gunning for your place!

Worcester Rugby Club's new scrum- half, who made the switch from Harlequins last month, has immediately set his sights on the skipper's shirt.

"I'd like to get myself a starting spot, play consistently and keep that position," he said.

"I was fully aware when I spoke to the club that Werner Swanepoel was here. However, the only thing I can do is play well when I get my chance.

"I'm confident in my own ability and what I want to do is impress in training and play to the pattern the coaches want out on the pitch.

"Werner has a great reputation and is club captain. He's a big personality within the club but I can only do my best in training and on the field and, obviously, I'm very keen to play."

Powell began pre-season training last week and was delighted to see former Quins team-mates Adrian Olver and Daren O'Leary.

"It makes it easier when there are a few friendly faces," he said. "I've also been on a couple of tours with Dan Zaltzman and Christian Evans. In fact I've just moved into Dan's house!

"I'm going to have to domesticate them first though! It's an awesome area, a great place to live so I'm de-lighted to be at Worcester."

Powell rates Worcester as the best club in the country as far as infrastructure is concerned.

"I've been to every Premiership ground and Worcester has by far the best facilities in English rugby," he added. "It's very professional right throughout the club and really how an English rugby club should be run.

"I've played in the Premiership for the past six years and I haven't noticed any difference whatsoever.

"That's very important because we not only want to gain promotion but also to be in a position that we can live in the Premiership."