Pennell ruled out for the season

Chris Pennell faces knee surgery following a cruciate ligament injury

Young Worcester Warriors winger Chris Pennell has been ruled out for the rest of the season.

Pennell is expected to undergo surgery next week after being diagnosed with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

"He will be out for the rest of the season," Warriors director of rugby Ruddock told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"Chris has previously broken his leg but overcame this blow to claim a first team contract. And we wish him a successful recovery from this setback."

The talented 21-year-old (the second back Worcester have lost for the season inside a month following the injury to Sam Tuitupou) was injured during last weekend's European Challenge Cup win over Bucuresti Oaks at Sixways.

He is due to see a surgeon on Wednesday and is expected to have a knee reconstruction operation next week.

Chris Pennell is a great professional who has shown great maturity when dealing with setbacks in the past

Warriors coach Mike Ruddock

Ruddock admits that it is a major blow to the player who has scored 32 points in 31 appearances for the Warriors and who has established himself in the first team squad this season.

Ruddock feels that Pennell has already shown he has the strength of character needed to battle back from this injury.

"Chris is a great professional who has shown great maturity when dealing with setbacks in the past," he said. "I fully expect him to make a major impact when he returns next season."