SCOTLAND international David Denton admitted it was director of rugby Gary Gold’s philosophy on the game which lured him to Warriors.
The giant 6ft 5in back row, who can also play at lock, made the switch to Sixways from Bath this summer after being impressed with the Worcester chief’s defence-minded outlook on the game – one in which he believes plays to his strengths.
Cutting out defensive errors was at the forefront of Gold’s plans when he took over from Carl Hogg in the New Year.
It was a move which halted the leakage of points conceded and ultimately secured the club’s Premiership status.
The former Edinburgh Rugby player also stressed the importance for the club to keep their Premiership goals close to their chest, but insisted it will be critical gaining respect from other teams.
“The club is definitely moving in the right direction. There were several reasons why I chose to join Warriors and although the facilities are world-class, the main reason was meeting with the coaches and hearing their philosophy on rugby,” said Denton.
“Their tactics as well as how they viewed the game were very similar to mine. I wanted to be at a club where I could contribute and one that played to my strengths. I felt like the way Worcester played was a game plan I could fit right into and help the team.
“Gold has made it vocal how important it is to hit the ground running, but in terms of goals and what we want achieve I think it’s important we keep our cards close to our chest.
“But we know it’s time to push on, so in terms of the way we play and how we’re perceived, we want to make sure that people respect us. That’s something the coaching staff have focused on a lot. We must earn respect from each other and from those outside the club.”
Having spent two months at the club, Denton insists he has settled into his new surroundings and has set an eye on a return call-up to Scotland.
He has made 35 appearances for his country including in the World Cup, Six Nations and Sevens.
“Personally, it was an easy transition for me moving here. I know a few of the boys from my days at Bath,” he said. “I grew up with Marco Mama in Zimbabwe and have known him since I was eight-years-old. Having those connections helps you to settle.
“I’ve been very much welcomed into the squad and there’s a great bunch of guys here, so my first goal is to repay the faith that Worcester have shown me. Obviously, my second goal will be to try and play for Scotland again.”