JOHN Brain will spearhead Worcester Rugby Club's promotion challenge next season.

The Sixways director of rugby has told chairman Cecil Duckworth he intends to stay on as Worcester bid for another shot at promotion to the Premiership.

Brain's contract was due to run out at the end of June but he looks set to sign a new one-year deal after accepting next season's playing budget.

"It allows us to be competitive and that was the main factor," said Brain. "The club had to make a decision of what it wanted to do next season. Whether it wanted to be competitive in National One or just tread water.

"Obviously I want to be competitive and have another go at getting the club into the Premiership. Although it is a reduced budget, it will still enable us to keep the core of the squad together and add quality to it.

"The belief within the squad is there and the feeling is that it is unfinished business."

It is now up to coach Andy Keast to finalise his plans for next season although Brain believes all the signs are positive.

"We've both been talking to players, that we would like to bring to the club for next season, so I think that is a positive sign," added Brain.

"Only Andy can make the final decision on his future, but I think it is highly likely that the same coaching set-up will be in place next season."

One person, however, who will not be at Sixways on a full time basis next season is Billy McGinty. The coach left the club after the final game of the season and Brain revealed that the budget cannot accommodate a full time defensive guru next season.

"It's a shame but there is still scope for Billy to come down and take the odd session," said Brain.

"We talk to Billy regularly and he will still have an input but unfortunately not a full time one. We will just have to get around it."