WORCESTER Rugby Club skipper Kingsley Jones has admitted he was relieved to see John Brain bring in another top class fly-half.
Jones has seen Worcester draft in academy young guns Dan Cullen and Jon Higgins this season as back up to Craig Chalmers and Tony Yapp but believes the signing of vastly experienced Steven Vile was a wise move.
With Chalmers missing much of the season through injury, Jones was well aware of the need for a strong squad and felt the two youngsters were probably players for the future rather than today.
"Steven is a good player," said Jones. "You only have to look at the situation a couple of weeks ago when Craig was injured. If Tony had gone down with something, we were in trouble and that could cost us promotion.
"We really needed someone to fill that third spot to give Craig and Tony a rest and also to keep them both hungry.
"It is a good move to keep them on their toes. If Steven doesn't play but he brings out the best in the other two, then great."
Vile enjoyed two years at Bristol in the Premiership but also has vital experience at National One level from his time at West Hartlepool.
"I've played against him a few times and has a lot of experience," added Jones.
"He's a good, solid player for us and Steven will be able to carry out a game-plan with the minimum of fuss - if you like be a general on the pitch."
Jones, however, spared a thought for Yapp who, after impressing in the first team again this year, now finds himself with extra competition for the number 10 jersey.
"I feel a bit for Tony," he said. "I'm sure though that he can see why John has brought Steven in. There is a need for a big squad if we are to win promotion."
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