THOMAS Lombard has paid tribute to Warriors fans after returning to his native France.

The popular centre has left Worcester to re-join his first team, Racing Club de France in Paris, but has thanked the Sixways faithful for their support during his three years in England.

"I will definitely miss the Worcester supporters," Lombard said. "They have been just unbelievable to me.

"They really know how to enjoy the game here. The fans embrace the game and always have the right state of mind by always backing the team.

"The character of the fans here is superb, they are always respectful and I will always remember the noise and atmosphere here at Sixways on big match days."

Lombard was due to return to France this time last year but was persuaded to stay on by chairman Cecil Duckworth. He has struggled to force his way into the team in the latter stages of this campaign but played a fine cameo role in the final game of the season against Saracens.

"There are games that will stay in my mind forever," said Lombard.

"In the first year of the Guinness Premiership, when we beat Northampton Saints on the final day was so special. That was a great first season for me. Then there was what I thought was my final game at Sixways against Newcastle last year, to have all the supporters giving me a big send-off as I walked around at the end and saying goodbye was emotional.

"And then when we stayed up on the final day of this season, that atmosphere was so amazing."