WORCESTER Warriors boss Alan Solomons believes ring-fencing the Gallagher Premiership would "benefit the development" of homegrown players.

The veteran coach has previously refused to be drawn into the on-going debate over whether there should be no relegation from the top-flight.

But when asked for his views on ring-fencing at the supporters’ forum last week Solomons dropped his guard.

“There is no question that if ring-fencing happened it would be of benefit to the development of young, English players,” said Solomons whose side finished 10th last term.

“When you look at last season Harlequins were fifth having won one more than we did so that was a very tight competition.

“When there is a possibility of relegation and people are wanting to make the top six what tends to happen is that it is not a development competition.

“(Ring-fencing) wouldn’t mean there would be less competition but there would be a greater opportunity to develop young players. That’s my own view.”

Warriors have constantly battled to stave off relegation since they first gained promotion to the top-flight in 2004 and have twice failed to avoid the drop.

Solomons is keen to put his faith in youth but admits that can become difficult when the stakes get higher.

“You have always got to get a balance of youth and experience,” said Solomons at this week’s press conference.

“But sometimes the nature of the game and what is at stake maybe swings (selection) towards a slightly more experienced player.”

There were plans to move to a 13-team league in the 2020-21 season with one club being promoted from the Championship and no relegation.

At the end of that campaign and thereafter a promotion play-off between the Premiership's bottom side and the top team in the Championship was also mooted.

However, negotiations over the proposed changes ended in late August.

Asked whether this should be discussion again, Solomons said: “It’s not for me to decide.

“I was asked a question (at the supporters’ forum).

“I do think it’s logical to say that you will better facilitate the development of young, English players in a competition which has not got promotion and relegation.”