WARRIORS and England centre Ben Te’o insists he will be playing for Worcester next season and believes the club can ‘push on’ to be amongst Europe’s elite.
The talented 30-year-old, who recently rejoined the Warriors camp after being on international duty with England in the RBS 6 Nations, has silenced any doubts of him making a move away from the Sixways side next season, stating he is proud to ‘fly the Worcester flag’.
The former Leinster player, who spent seven years playing rugby league before switching codes in 2014, also insisted his goal is to make sure Worcester end the season strong with four wins from four.
Having played just six Aviva Premiership games for Warriors this campaign and scoring three tries, Te’o is itching to get back into the ‘Worcester groove’.
“The 6 Nations is a very intense competition and eight weeks is a long time to be in camp. It’s the best of the best going at it, so was tough, fast and physical,” said Te’o.
“I took a bump to the head in Dublin, but I’ve followed all the processes and saw a specialist last week so I’m back and ready to play.
“I haven’t thought too much about the Lions tour to New Zealand, but I’ve definitely got my eye on the Argentina tour. I feel like I’m improving my game with England and want to keep building on those improvements. It’s a great environment.
“I’m now getting myself back into the groove with Worcester and want to finish the season strong. This will be my first trip up north to Sale so I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve been away for a long time, but hopefully I can integrate myself and play well Friday night.
“We have four games left to finish strong and with a lot of confidence, which will feed into next season. We want to push on and be playing in Europe’s top tier competition.
“The club is on the right track and (director of rugby) Gary Gold has bought a new energy here, so the goal is four wins starting with Sale.
“I’m defiantly here for next season. I’m enjoying my time at the club. If there were people out there who thought I wasn’t committed to Warriors that’s not the case. (England head coach) Eddie Jones is always stressing you’re not there yet as you’re always improving. That’s what I’m at Worcester to do.
“I want to contribute to the team and fly the Worcester flag.”
Warriors take on Sale Sharks at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night (kick-off 7.45pm).