FORMER Bedford lock Dan Zaltzman was set to put any feelings for his old club aside today as Worcester look to continue their superb start to the season.

The Sixways side lead National Division One by four points after just three games with a 100 per cent record. And yet it will be a strange day for many of the Worcester stars as they lock horns with their ex-club.

Seven players arrived from the Goldington Road club as well as new director of coaching Adrian Skeggs during the summer months.

But Zaltzman has no doubt where his loyalties lie -- even when the Bedford Blues are in town.

He said: "I was sad to leave mainly because of the supporters at Bedford because they are a really passionate bunch who care deeply about their rugby.

"The players and the crowd had a very strong bond and when we went out on to the pitch we never wanted to let them down."

The supporters actually helped to keep the club afloat last season after a catalogue of financial problems but they could not prevent the inevitable relegation from the top flight.

The drop led to numerous player departures in the summer and the switch to semi-professionalism. However, the season has begun badly for Bedford and they lie ninth in the league after two defeats in three games.

"Relegation last season was very disappointing for all of us involved but the whole season was very difficult because we'd lost so many players due to the finances.

"We had a very good team spirit and it is very similar to now at Worcester because the spirit is fantastic."

The 24-year-old is enjoying life at Sixways now and is just pleased to be back in a winning team.

He said: "We've got a very good squad here and the competition for places is excellent so I see no reason why we cannot continue what we have started.

"I'm sure the Worcester crowd will get behind us."