Goode to join Worcester

Worcester have announced the signing of former England fly-half Andy Goode.

Goode, 29, will link up with the Warriors this summer after his stint with South Africa-based Super 14 side Natal Sharks ends.

He is currently on loan to the Sharks from French club Brive.

Goode has made 17 Test match appearances for England, including playing in both games against Argentina last summer.

He is also the third-highest points scorer in Premiership history, having left Leicester for Brive in 2008 following a career at Tigers that saw him win major European and domestic silverware.

Worcester though, are currently battling to preserve their Premiership status, standing just one point above bottom club Leeds Carnegie.

Goode said: "I am really looking forward to making the move and excited by the plans the club has.

"I have spoken to (Worcester rugby director) Mike Ruddock on several occasions about the Warriors, and I was impressed by his real passion to bring success and the way in which he sees me being a key role of that development over the coming years.

"I've also been impressed by the club's recruitment ahead of next season, particularly the capture of (Toulon's) Luke Rooney, who I faced in the Top 14.

"I am sure Luke will become a real asset to the Warriors, and I look forward to combining with him and all the squad at Sixways."