Ollie Lawrence defends Tweet on Worcester debacle

England centre Ollie Lawrence says the legacy of former Worcester owner Cecil Duckworth is “close to being tarnished” due to the club reportedly being on the verge of administration.

The 22-year-old player called for answers and an end to the uncertainty during a series of social media posts.

Warriors – owned by Jason Whittingham and Colin Goldring, who are directors at League One football club Morecambe – have sought new funding following a winding-up petition over unpaid tax.

Benefactor Duckworth, who died aged 83 in 2020, transformed Worcester into a Gallagher Premiership side during a long association with the club.

Lawrence wrote on Twitter: “Before anyone decides to state/complain that I’m slating the reputation of the people that pay our wages… I’m really not! They invested in the club & tried to “create change” so can’t fault that.

“But Cecil Duckworth created a legacy for this club, and that is close to being tarnished currently. There just comes a point where people’s careers/livelihoods/families are being affected, which I believe that should be answered for.

“I have nothing but respect for the whole players and staff for continuing to pitch up everyday with all this uncertainty.

“The rumour mill will continue, but it’s above us now as to what happens, but for now we’ll crack on as a team and wait to see what unfolds.”

Worcester’s search for financial assistance has been hampered by “unavoidable delays” following positive Covid-19 tests to key people.

They could become the first Premiership club to enter administration since Richmond in 1999.