QUESTION marks remain over powerhouse centre Sam-my Tuitupou’s future as a Worcester Warriors player.

The former All Black, who is out of contract at the end of this season, is believed to be keen to extend his Sixways stay, but he needs to address his family situation before a decision can be made.

The ex-Auckland Blues player moved his family to Worcester when he signed for Warriors, but they failed to settle and returned to New Zealand.

If Tuitupou, known as the Pocket Rocket, can persuade his family to give Worcester another try, he would be happy to extend his contract.

Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock explained: “Everything in principle between us, Sammy and his agent is good in terms of going forward. I think there are still one or two situations behind the scenes which need to be sorted in terms of his domestic situation.

“I don’t want to go into detail about that, but it is all about his family and whether or not he can move them over here for the longer term. In principle, I think Sammy wants to stay and we want him to stay too.”

Tuitupou has not looked anywhere near his usual destructive self — both going forward and in defence — since recovering from a knee reconstruction operation.

But Ruddock believes he saw signs of a return to top form in the 12-12 draw with Bath.

The Warriors chief added: “I think on Friday there were glimpses of the old Sammy. For some reason referee Wayne Barnes got upset with him on a couple of challenges but, having watched the video, I think they were 50-50 calls.

“Sammy looked aggressive, determined and hugely physical going forward — he hit hooker Lee Mears once and nearly broke him in half!

“In fairness to Sammy — and the other backs — it is difficult with the sort of ball they are getting to try and make in-roads into defences.”

Ruddock has been impressed with Kiwi wing Rico Gear, who is on trial for a new contract as his current deal also expires this season.

He said: “He’s given 100 per cent, there’s no doubt about that — the odd little error has crept into his game, but you could say that about a lot of our players at the moment.

“Just little handling errors, but his attitude and commitment are first-class.

“As and when I do make a decision, obviously Rico will be the first to know one way or another. It will be a number of weeks yet though,” added Ruddock.