The World Cup-winning back is stepping up his post-injury rehabilitation ahead of his arrival in Worcester on Sunday.

His recovery from the torn pectoral muscle sustained in May is weeks ahead of schedule, and Latham said: "I went to see the specialist and he is delighted with my rehab.

"I've been given the all-clear to step up my weight-training programme and to test the shoulder with some contact work next week."

Worcester take on Saints on September 6 in the season opener.

Latham added: "If everything goes according to plan I will be in the frame for the Northampton game but there are no guarantees so I won't be making a definite decision until I get to Worcester.

"The club have been absolutely fantastic to me and my family and it's just a matter of time when I will be fit.

"I want to play against Northampton but I am working to a very tight schedule and I could end up a week behind in my rehab because of the settling-in process when I arrive."