FULL-BACK Chris Pennell could remain as Worcester Warriors’ goal-kicker if Jono Lance does not overcome a nagging toe problem.

The Sixways stalwart took over the kicking duties last weekend and landed two conversions in Warriors’ 31-27 win over Leicester Tigers at Welford Road.

Fly-half Lance has struggled from the tee since his arrival on a short-term deal as he notably missed five of his attempts at goal in Worcester’s loss to Harlequins earlier this month.

But director of rugby Gary Gold admitted it was a complaint with his “landing foot” not his lack of form which led Lance to hand over the responsibilities to Pennell.

“Jono has been struggling with his toe so we wanted to let it recover which was the reason why Chris took over the duties,” Gold said.

“It was an issue with his landing foot which was annoying him so the longer he can recover then the better position we can be put in.”

If Lance continues to find discomfort, Pennell looks set to keep the role for Warriors’ league clash with Sale Sharks at Sixways on Friday (7.45pm).

Ryan Mills is another option for Gold as his accuracy with the boot proved crucial in steering Worcester to safety at the end of last season.

But kicking also aggravates a long-standing injury problem for centre Mills and Gold insisted he was happy to keep backing Pennell.

“Ryan has got an issue with his knee that just needs looking after,” Gold said.

“It’s not damaged, but if he does kick he does have to strap it.

“I would prefer to play him without it strapped so I wanted Chris to have a go at the poles.

“He is a good long-range kicker and was kicking well last week so we made the decision to give it to him.”

Gold is expected to be without Gerrit-Jan van Velze due to a rib injury which he sustained in the win at Leicester.

Scotland international David Denton is likely to fill the number eight jersey in his absence with Andrew Durutalo and Huw Taylor also in the frame.

Durutalo has returned from international duty with USA along with hooker Joe Taufete’e.

But after naming an unchanged starting line-up against Leicester following their win over Northampton Saints, Gold appears to be resistant to making too many changes.

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Gold said.

“The fact you are able to consistently select a team going a long way to get some form of success.

“I am a massive believer in continuity and a group of players playing together, particularly in key combinations so the more often you can keep guys together the better that is for you.”