Francois Hougaard has signed a permanent deal with the Worcester Warriors.

Hougaard initially joined the English club in February on a short-term contract until the end of the season before a scheduled return to the Blitzboks in May.

However, on Tuesday the Warriors confirmed that the 27-year-old will report back to Sixways at the completion of the Olympics Games after signing a long-term contract ahead of the 2016-17 campaign.

Hougaard made an impressive start to his Warriors career, scoring a try on debut and claiming the Man of the Match award in their win over the Newcastle Falcons. 

'I haven't been here long but I've become really fond of Worcester. There are incredible facilities and the club have great ambitions which is something I'm really excited about being a part of. Now my aim is to help drive Warriors up the Premiership table to achieve our long-term goal of becoming a top European side,' Hougaard said. 

Director of rugby Dean Ryan says Hougaard has had a huge influence on the side in a short space of time.

'You can see the difference he has made to the squad and that comes from a wealth of experience from his time in Super Rugby and playing internationally. We're delighted he's decided to be a part of our journey and we hope he can be a catalyst for us moving forward.'

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