SAMOAN forward Chris Vui admitted his move to the Aviva Premiership forced him to pile on 4kg to cope with the physicality and contact of the league.
The giant 6ft 6in lock, who can also play blindside flanker, joined Warriors in December on a short-term deal until the end of this season, having come from New Zealand Mitre 10 Championship outfit North Harbour.
Vui believes Premiership rugby is more direct than in New Zealand, where he also had a stint with Auckland Blues in the 2015 Super Rugby campaign.
But the 24-year-old insisted he has adapted to life in the Premiership and has no plans for a move away from Warriors.
“I think I had a bit of a slow start initially, but I’ve settled now and have really enjoyed my time with the club. They boys have made it an awesome experience,” said Vui.
“It wasn’t a smooth transition and I’ve put 4kg on since being here to help with the physicality and contact. The Premiership is different to the rugby back in New Zealand. I found I could express myself more, but over here it’s a lot more direct.
“It’s been quite a big change, but I think I’ve adapted pretty well. I’m not looking too far into the future and haven’t signed anything that would see me move away from Warriors.
“My sole focus at the moment is with Worcester. I’m enjoying working with my teammates, the coaches and the community.”
The Samoan believes director of rugby Gary Gold has given the squad the belief they can beat anyone on their day. Warriors proved that against Wasps two weeks ago, and the challenge continues on Friday night with a trip to Sale Sharks.
“We fought hard against Wasps in the dying stages to claim the two bonus points,” said Vui. “I just shows the strength of character in our team and the building that’s going on here. We all have a winning mentality.
“Credit has to go to Gary. Before he arrived we were pretty much in the dumps, but he’s given us the belief that we can push up the league ladder. We have quality players here and I think he’s tapped into those guys.
“We’re going into the Sale game with a lot of confidence. They’re a good team at home but I think we’ll come away with the points.”