Worcester snap up Dean Schofield

Worcester have confirmed they have finally agreed a deal to bring former England lock Dean Schofield. The powerhouse forward, who won two caps back in 2007, has spent the past two seasons in the Top 14 with Toulon having previously made 162 appearances for Sale. And Warriors boss Richard Hill believes Schofield will bring a "physical presence" to his pack next season. Hill said: "Dean is a big man and a powerful man who is also quick and has superb skills. When he plays he stands out in the pack of forwards, he is all-action and brings his presence to the close quarters and is very influential. "I have spoken to Joe El-Abd, who was my captain at Bristol and who now plays with him at Toulon, and he has said just how highly-regarded Dean is in the Top 14 and how skilful a player he is too. "Dean has a vast amount of Aviva Premiership and Heineken Cup experience. With Craig Gillies, James Percival and Chris Jones also contracted for next season, we have players that really complement each other and it gives us strength in depth and huge competition next season."