Crichton arrived at Sixways in 2007 after impressing at the World Cup

Worcester Warriors have confirmed that Samoan back Loki Crichton is to leave the club at the end of this season.

Director of rugby Mike Ruddock told BBC Hereford and Worcester that Crichton, 33, has accepted the decision and is already planning for his future.

"I've told Loki there won't be any place for him in next season's squad and he understands that," said Ruddock.

"He is talking about going back to New Zealand and we wish him well as he has done really well for us."

Ruddock added: "I would like to pay tribute to Loki and to his whole hearted dedication to the cause.

"He is an excellent athlete with a great skill set and we wish him and his family every success in the future."

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to Crichton leaving

Ruddock says the emergence of some of the younger players was a factor in allowing Crichton to leave Sixways.

"We've got a great number of young players coming through like Greg King, Alex Grove and George Crook," said Ruddock.

"We're keen to bring those guys through now and that means we can let Loki go, while we are also keen to increase our number of English-qualified players."

Ruddock has also admitted he would be interested in signing on-loan Willie Walker on a permanent deal, if he were to become available.

"I've spoken to his agent and told him that, were Gloucester to release him, then we would definitely love to have Willie here," added Ruddock.

"He is a proven match winner and has been a popular member of the squad.

"I've asked his agent to investigate that with Gloucester but at the moment I have had nothing concrete back to say that we can go ahead and sign him."

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