CENTRE Will Butler will be promoted to Worcester Warriors’ first-team squad next season after landing a two-year contract.

The promising 20-year-old made his senior debut against Enisei-STM in October 2016 and scored two tries against Northampton Saints last season in only his second Premiership appearance.

An elbow injury forced him to miss the start of the 2018-19 campaign but Butler is back to full fitness and has now committed his future to Warriors.

“I have enjoyed every minute of my time at Sixways so I am naturally delighted to have signed a new deal,” Butler said.

“Solly (Alan Solomons, director of rugby) and the coaches have been clear about where they are taking the club and the players have all bought in to what they are working to achieve.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I have had at Warriors and I am excited about the journey ahead.”

Butler joined the Warriors set-up aged 14 and made his way up the age-groups, helping the under 18s to Finals Day success both in 2016 and 2017.

The rising star has also represented England from under 17s and under 20s levels, winning the U20s Six Nations in 2017.

The news of Butler’s deal follows the retention of fellow academy aces Ted Hill and Ollie Lawrence this month.

Solomons added: “Will is a talented young player with excellent leadership skills.

“His ability has been recognised at international age-grade level and I have no doubt that he will play a key role in the club going forward.

“It is fantastic news for the club that yet another of our young academy players has come through the ranks and committed his future to Warriors."