DIRECTOR of rugby Alan Solomons reckons an all-or-nothing clash with strong opponents could not be better timed for Warriors.

Worcester host Castres in a decisive European Challenge Cup Pool One clash tonight (8pm) with both sides taking seriously the shot at reaching the last eight, naming a host of senior stars.

And while Solomons insists the Premiership remains the priority, the prospect of emulating last season's safe passage would leave him "chuffed".

"I think our focus has to be on the Premiership and it has been," said Solomons.

"Last season we did exactly the same and managed to get a play-off spot and if we play well we will do so again.

"That would be excellent and we would be really chuffed if we were able to do that but we are fully aware the Premiership is our bread and butter."

Castres head to Sixways with a strong squad despite their battle at the bottom of the Top 14.

The French side took command of the pool by hammering the Dragons at the Stade Pierre-Fabre and will travel with established stars that did the job last weekend.

They start with influential ex-France half-back Rory Kockott, giant tighthead Wilfried Hounkpatin and powerhouse Fijian wing Filipo Nakosi.

"They have a well-organised and well-structured team, they tend to play for territory and be very physical with a strong defence," added Solomons.

"It is a good challenge for all of us and I think it is important to have a game of this quality going back into the Premiership when we play Wasps.

"The Top-14 sides travel pretty well and we know from playing them over there what a good team they have, they are well coached as well so it will be a good, tough game."