Dean Richards has labelled the Six Nations break more of a hinderance than a help ahead of Saturday's crunch Guinness Premiership clash with Worcester Warriors.

Quins have had eight players on international duty over the past fortnight, with Nick Easter (knee), Andy Gomarsall (back) and Will Skinner (leg) now injury doubts for the weekend's Premiership action.

Richards has already lost star winger David Strettle for up to eight weeks with a hairline fracture in his foot.

Quins have historically benefited from playing against weakened teams during international periods, but Richards believes his side can cope with the boot being on the other foot.

"Nick, Andy and Will are all concerns but I am hopeful they will be okay for the weekend," he said.

"The mid-season can be a hinderence because you have players returning with injury, but it can also be a help.

"From that point of view, we have been able to work for long periods with the players not on international duty and to get some continuity.

"It is nice to get the EDF Energy and Heineken cups out of the way, so we can get back to some consistency in terms of selection, and Saturday will again form part of that process."