PLAYMAKER Will Butler is looking to hit the weights this summer but also keen to remain an “elusive player” that can “unlock” defences.

The 21-year-old centre has graduated from the academy after penning a two-year senior contract and is determined to get himself in prime physical condition ahead of next season.

Director of rugby Alan Solomons revealed Worcester Warriors’ fitness coaches were putting together a conditioning plan to “beef up” Butler who weighs 13st 5lb according to the club’s website.

The ex-England under 20s ace said he was willing to add some extra pounds but does not want to lose his agility and dexterity with ball in hand.

“There are certain aspects of my position which do depend on size,” Butler said.

“I pride myself on being a bit of an elusive player and a decision maker.

“But the way the game has gone now you need that underlying physicality within your game.

“I will try to use this pre-season as best I can to beef up a little bit.”

Asked how many pounds he was looking to put on, Butler said: “I don’t think there is a figure on it.

“I think it is more about how I hold myself in the position.

“If I start performing and those (physical) aspects of my game increase then I don’t think they will be worried about an actual number.

“Considering the way games are won physicality is such a massive thing but the way teams can unlock and manipulate defences is a big part of what I pride my ability on.

“There is a strong focus on getting a bit bigger but I need to make sure that all the things I pride myself on remain.”

Butler is currently overcoming a fractured forearm sustained in Worcester Cavaliers’ defeat at Newcastle Falcons in the Premiership Shield in April.

The season-ending injury was among a series of setbacks for Butler who made just five first-team outings last term largely due to an elbow issue.

“I took a blow to my elbow in the last Premiership game of the (2017-18) season,” Butler said.

“I rehabbed it and tried to get back for the World Rugby U20 Championship.

“I managed to get through that and played in the Premiership Rugby 7s but my elbow went again so I had it operated on and got back fit for the second block of European games just before Christmas.

“It feels like a long time when you are sat watching the other guys play.

“I think you kind of accept (injuries) as being part of the sport.

“So many players get injured so it’s about how hard you work to try to return to full fitness and get back out on the pitch.

“Having players fit is key to having a team that is going to perform.

“I think the background staff at Warriors do a great job in making sure that they monitor the loads of the players so come game-day everyone is fighting fit and we have the best chance of winning games.”