WARRIORS director of rugby Alan Solomons confirmed scrum-half Francois Hougaard has recovered from a foot injury ahead of time to make his return against Bath on Saturday (3pm).

Solomons praised the medical department for their work with the South African number nine, who has been struggling with the issue since the turn of the year.

“The medics have done a great job with Francois,” he said.

“I’m really pleased he’s back available and I’m looking forward to him being back involved with the team.

“He is an outstanding professional and he really looks after himself and now he looks really fit. I’m excited about him getting going again.”

Solomons also offered an update on the ongoing winger crisis with Perry Humphreys the only fit senior player out wide after injuries to Ed Fidow, Tom Howe, Dean Hammond and Melani Nanai.

The Samoan was last week ruled out for the remainder of the season after having surgery on his shoulder but Solomons reported surgery was successful and the rehab process has begun.

“His shoulder was not right,” Solomons added.

“He has been playing with the injury and it became apparent that it was deteriorating so I discussed it with the medics and they strongly advised that he have surgery.

“There’s no point in risking it and potentially losing him further. For me it was the best decision to have it done and the op was successful.

“Then next season he can start completely fresh and ready to go.”

There was some positive news concerning Howe’s lay-off, having initially been ruled out for eight weeks.

“The news on Howe is slightly better than we thought,” he added.

“Now the thinking is that it could be four to six weeks rather than eight and that’s positive.

“It’s a blow as we have three (wingers) out. We have got a lot of cover but it’s similar to last season with our centres when we lost a few.

“Scott van Breda has played on the wing for me at the Kings and did splendidly. I think we have the cover to be honest so this will create opportunities for these young guys.”

Andrew Kitchener was confirmed as being fit for this weekend, whilst Ollie Morris has also returned to playing but Justin Clegg is still out for another couple of weeks.

Solomons said: “Kitchener is good to go and he should be available for selection and Justin has a bit of bone bruising so still may be two to three weeks away. Ollie Morris is back playing.”

Warriors will welcome the return of internationals Duncan Weir, Cornell du Preez and Ted Hill following their release from squads during the Six Nations week off.

Worcester will be looking to avoid a third straight home defeat in all competitions.