MIKE Ruddock is hopeful of receiving a double fitness boost ahead of tomorrow night's European Challenge Cup semi-final clash with Newcastle Falcons at Sixways (8pm).

The Warriors' chief is optimistic key players Pat San-derson and Dale Rasmussen will both be fighting fit to play major parts in the battle for a place in the final.

Rasmussen has recovered from concussion and will return at centre, while Rud-dock is also confident captain Sanderson will be fit enough to take his place in the back- row.

The Sixways' boss said: "The players were off yesterday, but Pat phoned in to let me know he was feeling a lot better than he was on Tuesday.

"He is still 50-50 to be match- fit in time for the game, but hopefully his improvement will continue and he will be available to play.

"Dale has now passed his concussion test and there is every chance he will go straight back into the team.

"Rico Gear will probably drop to the bench as Marcel Garvey and Miles Benjamin have been doing so well on the wings."

Meanwhile, England star Jonny Wilkinson has been named in the Newcastle side for the Sixways showdown after recovering from concussion.

He is still due to undergo shoulder surgery, which it has already been confirmed will sideline him for England's two-Test tour of New Zealand in June.

Wilkinson's England colleagues - centres Jamie Noon and Toby Flood - both return following ankle injuries, while there are recalls for full-back Mathew Tait, prop Carl Hay-man and number eight Phil Dowson.