WYNAND Olivier’s experience and leadership skills will be crucial to Worcester Warriors next season, insists team-mate Francois Hougaard.

Olivier is on the verge of signing a new deal with Warriors but it has not yet been confirmed by the club.

The 33-year-old has been in sparkling form for Warriors, scoring well-worked tries against Bath and Newcastle Falcons in his last two Aviva Premiership outings.

“I would love him to stay,” said Hougaard, who has been a close friend of Olivier since their time together at the Blue Bulls in South Africa.

“Wynand is not only a good friend but a great player.

“He’s coming up to 34 years old but he’s still one of the guys who performs week in week out.

“He came on against Bath and scored a brilliant try and every time he’s on the pitch he performs, which is great. I definitely want him to stay.”

Olivier joined Worcester from French side Montpellier in October 2015 and has bagged 12 tries in 40 appearances for the club.

With Jackson Willison still returning to fitness, Olivier could partner Ben Te’o in Warriors’ final match of the campaign against play-off chasing Leicester Tigers at a sold-out Sixways on Saturday (4pm).

Hougaard added: “The club could do with Wynand’s experience and leadership.

“He’s played 38 Tests for South Africa and you can see his leadership with the role has plays at Worcester whether that’s when he starts or comes off the bench.”