WORCESTER Warriors skipper Kai Horstmann has played alongside the likes of legendary Wallaby Chris Latham, Springbok full-back Thinus Delport and All Black duo Rico Gear and Sam Tuitupou — yet insists the current Championship crop form the club’s best squad.

The back-rower, who is leading Richard Hill’s side in the place of injured full-back Chris Pennell, joined Warriors from Harlequins in May 2005 and recently made his 150th Worcester appearance.

Horstmann concedes there is still a way to go before Worcester can challenge for a place in the upper echelons of the English game, but he is adamant it is a case of when rather than if they achieve their lofty ambitions.

The 29-year-old former England Saxon said: “I think this is the strongest squad we’ve had since I’ve been here. In order for us to be really successful you have to be massively confident in swapping like for like. I think there are areas in the squad where we could still strengthen and positions where we may be losing certain guys.

“But when you look at the top sides in the Premiership, you probably think we are not quite where they are yet in terms of quality right through the 35 to 40-man squad, but we’re not a million miles away.

“I certainly think we are in a position now where we could compete — and compete well — in the Premiership, but to take the next step on where we can challenge for a Heineken Cup place, then I think we do need a few more players.”

Towards the end of former director of rugby Mike Ruddock’s doomed three-year reign, there were murmurings of a lack of harmony in the Sixways dressing room.

Horstmann hinted that was the case, but insists the feel-good factor is alive and well under Hill’s stewardship.

He added: “There’s only so much guys can take being on the losing end of things —there’s only so much fight you can put up before you give in — but it has been really good for this squad to win games together this season.

“Winning brings you closer. Last year, for example, when we won a couple of games, the difference — just for that week — transformed things around the club.

“Winning has a massive influence and gives guys a bounce in their step. If you are constantly losing, people start niggling and groups form, which can be destructive.”

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