Worcester's Chris Pennell to miss start of Premiership season

Worcester and England full-back Chris Pennell will miss the start of the Premiership season due to a neck injury.

"It is disappointing to lose someone of Chris' ability and experience but our continued focus on squad development means we have players who can take the opportunity to step up," said high performance director Nick Johnston.

"Chris is working closely with our medical department to ensure he can return to fitness as soon as possible."

The 29-year-old has not travelled to the Warriors' pre-season training camp in France, and has already been ruled out of the September 3 opener against Saracens.