WALES international Chris Horsman has told club boss Mike Ruddock he has no intention of quitting Warriors this summer.

The prop has been linked with a move to Cardiff Blues but, after talks with incoming Sixways director of rugby Ruddock, has pledged his future to Worcester.

"I sat down with Chris and I asked him about the speculation," said Ruddock. "He was adamant that his club was the Warriors and his commitment was to the Warriors. "There was no way that was going to change.

"He is under contract until 2010. Chris was particularly anxious to make sure he reinforced his commitment."

Ruddock knows Horsman from his days as coach of the Wales national side and he gave him his international debut in 2005.

The tight-head is likely to be involved in the World Cup later this year and Ruddock knows he needs reinforcements in the front row, especially as Lee Fortey has been forced to retire from the game after being plagued by shoulder problems for the last two seasons.

"It's a decision by him and the club," said Ruddock. "It is just not going to work out. We want to thank him for his service to the club."

Warriors have already signed one prop in Shaun Ruwers and, although the South African had a neck operation two months ago, he is expected to be fit in plenty of time for the new season.

Tongans Tevita Taumoepeau and Aleki Lutui are also in the running for the World Cup and, if the pair are selected for the tournament in France, the need for cover will become even more pressing.

Another area of concern is the second row. Tim Collier is having his knee reconstructed and has been ruled out for the rest of 2007, while youngster Richard Blaze is moving to Leicester Tigers during the summer.

"We are looking at the possibility of needing an extra second row," said Ruddock."Tim Collier is out until January and Richard Blaze has gone to Leicester. So we have to strengthen there."

Back-row forwards Drew Hickey (elbow) and Kai Horstmann (shoulder) have both undergone surgery since the end of the season and will not be able to take part in full-contact training until the start of September.

Ruddock is hopeful both players will be available for the last of the club's pre-season games - which is scheduled to be at Harlequins on September 8.

Worcester are yet to confirm their friendly programme but all three games will be away from home with trips to Cardiff (August 18) and Plymouth (August 25) pencilled in.