WORCESTER Warriors are set to sign a new hooker after Andre Van Niekerk dislocated his shoulder in the Powergen Cup defeat against Northampton.

The South African faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines and, with Fortey brothers Chris and Lee also injured, Warriors hope to bring in a new player on a three-month contract.

"We can expect Andre to be out for anything from six weeks to three months," said director of rugby John Brain. "In view of that, we will be looking to recruit additional cover."

Van Niekerk's shoulder has been put back in but a scan today should reveal the extent of the injury.

Brain added: "The next decision is whether he will need surgery."

Problem

Lee Fortey is out of action having suffered a similar problem in a pre-season game, while twin Chris missed Saturday's match after stepping on a nail in his garden.

One player definitely out of Saturday's match at Leicester is centre Dale Rasmussen, who left the field with knee ligament damage and is likely to be out for "a number of weeks."

Chris Horsman, James Brown and Thinus Delport all missed the Northampton match with injuries, while Drew Hickey took a knock on his cheek during the match.

Phil Murphy and Tony Windo are also struggling with minor Achilles complaints and are unlikely to figure in a depleted side at Welford Road.