NNANDI Ezulike has revealed it was his England ambitions which brought him to Worcester Rugby Club.

The 25-year-old winger arrived yesterday at Sixways to begin a season which, he hopes, will not only propel Worcester into the Premiership but also elevate him back onto the international stage.

The Nigerian-born speed king endured a disappointing season last year at London Irish due to a posterior cruciate ligament injury followed by a lack of game time. And he jumped at the chance to be part of Worcester's Premiership push despite interest from inside the top flight.

"There was a fair bit of interest from Premiership clubs," he said. "They were decent clubs which showed interest but Worcester, from the turn of the year, were really determined to sign me and I liked what they were saying.

"I'm only 25 and I'm very ambitious. I've played England A and England sevens and to play for your country at the top level is still my ambition and one which I feel can be realised. I want to go that extra step further and hopefully Worcester can help me take that step."

Ezulike was also full of praise for Sixways assistant coach Andy Keast after taking advice from former mentor Conor O'Shea.

"Conor O'Shea told me about Andy Keast and what a great rugby mind he has. He is certainly an ideal coach for me because he works really well with the backs. His philosophy is getting the ball to the wingers as much as possible - which suits me!"

And the former Leicester team-mate of Dan Zaltzman and Duncan Roke was delighted to see so many friendly faces at Sixways on his first day.

"There were four of us who came from London Irish, I know Danny and Rokey from my time at Leicester. I've also played with Jim Jenner before on England A duty so it's good to see a few friendly faces."