Leicester Tigers boss Borthwick: Saints have so much quality

Tigers will welcome Chris Boyd s side to Welford Road on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

Both clubs still harbour hopes of finishing in the Gallagher Premiership top four, with Saints four points off fourth and Tigers 12 adrift with six games to go.

And Borthwick knows his team will face a tough task on derby day.

“They’re a side playing some very good rugby at the moment," he said.

“Northampton are a team packed full of quality players and led well by an experienced coaching team.

“We are very fortunate to be a part of a sport with traditional rivalries like this one. It’s exciting to be involved in a game with such a rich history behind it.

“We are disappointed our supporters won’t be here with us. We would love to have them in the stands on Saturday and cannot wait to welcome them back to Mattioli Woods Welford Road soon.”

Tigers are able to welcome back some key men this weekend, with wing Kobus Van Wyk returning after serving a four-week suspension.

Cyle Brink and Nemani Nadolo have returned to fitness and are named among the replacements.

Borthwick said: “It’s pleasing to see some players returning this weekend, which only adds to the competition for places we are trying to build at the club

“Cyle and Nemani have worked exceptionally hard to return from injury. They are both incredibly hungry to get back on the field with the team and represent Leicester Tigers.”