DIRECTOR of rugby Alan Solomons is upset departing wing Bryce Heem will be unable to play in Worcester Warriors’ final game of the season.

Heem has established himself as a firm fans' favourite and key player for Warriors since moving from Waikato Chiefs in 2015.

But the 30-year-old’s hopes of finishing his Worcester career in style were dashed when he was hit by a four-week ban last month.

The New Zealander was cited and then suspended for a challenge on Paolo Odogwu in Warriors’ win over Sale Sharks which was deemed a yellow card offence by referee Ian Tempest.

Heem appealed the RFU’s independent disciplinary panel’s decision but following another hearing a different panel agreed to stand by the original call.

“It is sad,” said Solomons on his emotions to Heem’s omission from his side to take on Saracens at Sixways today (4pm).

“I am saddened by it and Bryce is saddened by it as well but what can we do? It’s one of those things.

“We went through the process and that’s what was decided upon so that’s the end of it.”

Heem, who is expected to join Toulon this summer, has scored 32 tries in 70 appearances for Worcester.

He also jointly holds the club’s all-time try-scoring record in the Premiership with Josh Adams having crossed 25 times.

“He has been fantastic and is a class rugby player,” Solomons added.

“He has got X-factor.”