Aviva Premiership
Struggling Worcester announce new signings
ESPN Staff
February 4, 2014
The Bulls' Gerrit-Jan van Velze is taken down by Patric Cilliers (right) and Albert van den Berg, Natal Sharks v Blue Bulls, Currie Cup, ABSA Stadium, Durban, South Africa, July 24, 2009
Gerrit-Jan Van Velze - 'A different challenge' © Getty Images
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The Premiership's bottom side Worcester Warriors have announced uncapped South African back row Gerrit-Jan Van Velze will join the club from Northampton this summer.

"I had a conversation with Dean Ryan, during which he explained the challenge ahead," Van Velze said. "It's a different challenge to the one I've had at Northampton but it's something I'm looking forward to.

"I know Nick Johnston from his time at Northampton so it is clear that players are looked after on and off the pitch and it is an environment which will allow me to grow as a player and a person."

Warriors director of rugby Dean Ryan said: "It is fantastic that GJ has decided to join us. He is an experienced Premiership player with strong leadership qualities who we see being influential on the pitch as well as joining a strong leadership group to help us build a new culture here at Worcester."

Worcester also revealed that youngsters Charlie Mulchrone, Joe Rees and Heath Stevens will all move to Sixways at the end of the season.

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