Warriors bring in Walker on loan

Walker is under contract at Kingsholm until 2010

Worcester Warriors have brought in Gloucester fly-half Willie Walker on loan for the remainder of the season.

The 30-year-old New Zealand Maori has played 17 times for Gloucester this season, scoring two tries.

Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "He is a proven Premiership and international player with a lot of experience.

"He can play in more than one position and he's very confident in other positions such as at 12 or 15."

Walker has previously enjoyed spells with North Harbour in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship and the Highlanders in the Super 14.

I did talk to Willie last summer about potentially coming to us last season before he re-signed for Gloucester

Worcester Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock

Ruddock feels Walker's intelligent kicking and awareness of the game will strengthen Worcester's attacking options for this season.

"He brings a winning attitude with him, he has played some really good rugby for a number of years now and that's great news for us," said the former Wales boss.

"We have had quite a few number of well-documented injuries in the back line and we still have half a season to go, so with somebody of Willie's quality will be a great boost to us.

"I did talk to Willie last summer about potentially coming to us last season before he re-signed for Gloucester, so he is someone who I have followed and definitely admired."

Walker is likely to go straight into the Warriors squad for Saturday's Guinness Premiership match against Bath at Sixways.

Full commentary of the game will be available on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester on 104 FM and online at bbc.co.uk/herefordandworcester