Clarke has made 10 changes to the team who cruised to a bonus-point 27-0 victory over Pau at the Liberty Stadium last weekend. There will be a debut for 18-year-old centre Tiaan Thomas-Wheeler, who starts in the backline alongside flying wing Keelan Giles, who made his return from injury off the bench in round one.
Wales prop Rhodri Jones will make his 50th Ospreys appearance against a strong Worcester side, who are set to unleash England centre Ben Te’o from the replacements bench for his first appearance of the campaign. The in-form Warriors head into the game after hammering Bristol Bears in the Premiership and stunning Stade Francais 38-27 at Jean Bouin.
James Hook starts at outside-half after a man-of-the-match performance last time out, and he has urged the Ospreys’ young guns to grasp their European opportunity with both hands.
He said: “We’re full of confidence for this game off the back of a good win last weekend, but there’s still plenty to improve on. Worcester are coming off two really good wins so it’ll be tough, but it’s a great place to play rugby and a great atmosphere which these young guys will get to take a lot from.
“Outside-half has always been my favourite position, I started out there with Neath and brought that to the Ospreys, I haven’t played there properly for a couple of years so I’m looking forward to it.”
Head coach Clarke added: “Saturday is a wonderful opportunity for boys who are ‘chomping at the bit’ to showcase their talent and make a statement to be selected on a more regular basis. Worcester have a strong squad, are well coached and are playing good rugby. Our challenge is to focus on what we do well and ultimately deliver an individual and team performance to be proud of.”
