BATH coach John Connolly has insisted that Mike Catt will not be rushed back to help ease Bath's backs crisis.

World Cup winner Catt's ongoing back problems have led to speculation that his days as an England player may be coming to an end.

The player himself, who launched his benefit year this week, has reiterated that he intends to return for both club and country.

But Connolly's primary concern is when the South African-born playmaker can play for Bath with the end of this month currently pencilled in.

Queenslander Connolly said: "Our goal is to have Mike back and fit in time for the Parker Pen Challenge Cup quarter-final second leg match at the Rec on January 31st, should we progess.

"Mike is a fantastic player and given our current injury crisis in the backs we desperately need him but won't rush him. We need to get Mike 100 per cent fit."

BATH forward Jonathan Pettemerides has joined National Two side the Exeter Chiefs with immediate effect.

The back row/second row player joined Bath on a short-term contract at the beginning of the season as World Cup cover, but found his chances limited.

"Jonathan contributed fully in training and playing for the United side and was always 100 per cent committed," said Connolly.

"We would like to wish him all the best in his new position at Exeter."