WORCESTER Warriors director of rugby Dean Ryan is continuing the search to strengthen his newly-promoted Aviva Premiership squad.

Hooker Niall Annett was impressive in Worcester’s exciting 13-12 win against Northampton Saints on their return to the top table of English domestic rugby.

The front row is an area Ryan is keen to bolster following the summer departure of Argentina skipper Gus Creevy, who signed for his nation’s new franchise in Super Rugby.

“We are always looking to see if we can get the right person and the right opportunity,” said Ryan.

“We can’t operate in the natural recruitment windows by the nature of where we come from.

“Neither Wynand (Olivier) nor Donncha (O’Callaghan) came through those avenues.

“We are never going to turn down opportunities if we think they are right – so we are always looking.”

Warriors travel to the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday to face Sale Sharks in their second outing of the campaign (8pm).

Sale were soundly beaten 41-3 at champions Saracens in their opening match.

“For us, there were many things we didn’t know until we saw it against Saints,” said Ryan.

“We can get better and we didn’t execute some of the opportunities we created as well we would have liked.”

He added: “We know a good start is important because we know from two years ago the focus and magnifying glass which sits on the top of you until you start getting results.

“It will be nice if we can get some momentum and allow that focus to go on other people.”

Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond said his side had been working hard since their humbling defeat against Saracens.

"Worcester are coached well by Dean Ryan and he has recruited well during the summer," said Diamond.

“Last Friday we saw not only how they can attack but also how they defended against Northampton Saints."

He added: "The Aviva Premiership is an incredibly tough competition with all 12 clubs capable of beating one another, home or away.

"Last season, London Welsh lost all 22 games but that won't happen this season and it is  important to target home games and try to pick up wins and losing bonus points on the road.”