Incoming Worcester boss Steve Diamond promises ‘more abrasive’ approach

Worcester’s incoming rugby director Steve Diamond says he is confident of fielding a “highly-competitive squad” that will be “respected” in the Gallagher Premiership.

The former Sale Sharks boss will succeed Alan Solomons, who retires from coaching in June, at the end of this season on a two-year contract.

Worcester, who also announced that head coach Jonathan Thomas has left Sixways with immediate effect, appointed Diamond in a rugby consultancy role two months ago.

And, while he will remain in that capacity for the remainder of this campaign, Diamond also immediately takes charge of Worcester’s rugby programme.

Worcester are currently 12th in the Premiership, having won just three of their league games ahead of hosting Northampton on Saturday.

“There are a lot of good people here, fantastic facilities and a lot of good players, and I think the previous management team did a pretty good job,” Diamond said.

“I bring a different edge than what they had, if I am honest, a little bit more abrasive in our approach.

We have certainly got the talent, it's just putting all the ingredients into the saucepan- Steve DIamond

“Not taking anything away from previous people who have done the job, I have a different outlook on how I think we should play, and I think we have got the resources here to do that.

“I spent two months helping, advising, watching, listening – a helicopter view, whatever you want to call it. I made some recommendations and they have been implemented.

“We have certainly got the talent, it’s just putting all the ingredients into the saucepan. The ingredients are here – they have just not been utilised as well as they could have been.”

Diamond took a year off after leaving Sale, but it was widely expected that he