MIKE Ruddock declined to confirm reports Gavin Quinnell has left Sixways - but reiterated the huge back row forward is unlikely to get a new contract with the Warriors.

Rumours suggested that the giant Welshman had signed for Italian club Viadana, but the Worcester director of rugby insisted that was news to him.

Ruddock said: "Gavin has not left the club yet - I've not spoken to him about signing for other clubs. We'll have a chat tomorrow and find out a bit more about it.

"At the moment, as far as I know, it is just speculation. However, we have discussed with him that the future for him here is not looking great in terms of our potential to keep him on board and that he should keep his options open.

"We have uncovered a bit of strength in depth and there is a lot of competition developing in the back row.

"Netani Talei has come in and, when he's been fit, has played really well. He's managed to oust Gavin and push him a bit down the pecking order.

"Also, Tom Wood, Matt Cox and James Collins have all come through this year and I am tremendously keen to keep our academy products at the club."