DIRECTOR of rugby Dean Ryan has admitted the door will remain open at Sixways for Leicester Tigers-bound Mike Williams to return to Worcester Warriors.
Williams will end his two year-spell at Worcester where he has made 39 appearances in the summer as he looks to continue his career at Welford Road.
Since Warriors’ former boss Richard Hill snapped Williams up from South African side Blue Bulls in 2013, the Zimbabwean has made a big impact at Sixways.
His rapid progression led ten-times English champions Leicester to offer him a contract, which proved too good for Williams, who has aspirations to play for England, to turn down.
The 23-year-old’s departure is likely to be a big blow to Ryan’s plans to make Warriors a successful side in the top flight, but he insisted he accepted Williams’ decision and revealed he would welcome him back to the club.
“Over the last 18 months we have placed our focus on developing talented young players and Mike’s rapid progression is an illustration of the success we have had,” Ryan said.
“We have to accept that there will be occasions where a talented player of Mike’s calibre will seek to challenge themselves at the top of European rugby and join one of English rugby’s powerhouses.
“We wish Mike the best of luck in his quest with Leicester Tigers and will keep the door open for him to return to Sixways in the future.”
Williams added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years at Sixways and have no doubt that I would not be in a position to play European rugby now had it not been for the level of support and coaching I have received here.
“Warriors will always have a special place in my heart and I wish the club all the best for what I know will be a very successful future.”