Steve Borthwick says the club's announcement of 10 new contracts is an "exciting day" for the #TigersFamily, as the Leicester Head Coach continues to re-shape his squad.
In a jam-packed start to the week, the club announced the addition of Eli Snyman, Marco Van Staden and Francois Van Wyk to the Tigers forward pack ahead for the 2021/22 campaign, as well a short-term deal for Scotland international prop Darryl Marfo to commence immediately.
“Today is a very exciting day for everybody involved with Leicester Tigers," said Borthwick.
“We are excited about the additions of Eli, Marco and Francois next season and know they will be great assets to our club.
“Meanwhile, Darryl adds important depth to our pack."
In addition to the quartet of new faces, Borthwick confirmed the re-commitment of six players – including internationals Dan Cole and Nemani Nadolo – with new contracts at Tigers.
“To have experienced players like Dan and Nemani commit to what we are building is very pleasing and the Tigers community should be buoyed by their re-signings," he said.
“Also, Jasper Wiese has been very impressive since arriving in Leicester this season and has earned this new contract on the back of not only his performances on the pitch, but also his commitment to the club and hard work off the field."
As well as the experience of Cole, Nadolo and Wiese signing on with new deals, Borthwick welcomed the re-signing of youngsters Ollie Chessum, Dan Kelly and Tigers Academy graduate James Whitcombe.
“I have spoken at length about the work we have put in behind the scenes to re-shape this squad and my want to have players who are willing to do the hard work required," added the Tigers head coach.
“All of the players we have announced as joining or recommitting to Leicester Tigers represent those values and Ollie, Dan and James are great examples of players who are not only working hard every day to improve, but also have a great passion for this club and understand what is required to represent this club, our community and supporters."
Looking forward, Borthwick also praised the support of fans and club partners, even though he is still to share a matchday with them at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, and called on his players, coaches and the entire Tigers community to continue to work together on the "journey" under his watch.
“The hard work must now continue at the levels we have set as now being acceptable for this club,” Borthwick said.
“We are seeing progress from hard work and raising the expectations of supporters, who we cannot wait to have back with us on matchdays.
“The support from home of Tigers supporters and our club partners has been exceptional, which we feel very privileged to have as we are all on this journey together, and we look forward to welcoming them all back to Mattioli Woods Welford Road when it is safe to do so.”
