Worcester Warriors have taken a punt on former Harlequins tighthead prop James Johnston, despite him being unable to train or play at first team level for Wasps.

The 29-year-old quit the Coventry club on Tuesday to consider other options after an injury plagued five months in the Midlands.

Samoan international Johnston, who lifted the Premiership title with Quins in 2012 before joining Saracens, was injured in the build up to the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Subsequent injuries meant he was unable to train regularly or play a first team game at Wasps with director of rugby Dai Young disappointed he was unable to make an impact at the club.

But Warriors counterpart Dean Ryan is not concerned.

"The scrum is an area where we've lacked a bit of experience, so we're delighted James has agreed to be a part of our journey," he said.

"He has a wealth of top-class Premiership and European game-time under his belt and will add great depth to our front row.”

Johnston also seems enthused by the move.

"Worcester are building something special here and I've been really impressed with how the club has moved forward in the past 18 months," he added.

"I can't wait to join up with my new team-mates and I hope I can add something to the pack and help drive us up the league table.”