It’s been a rocky road at times with players out injured, combinations finding it tough to settle and a dip in form both collectively and individually at times. But there have been bright sparks too, including the run of six wins in the Aviva Premiership and the run to a European quarter-final. Individually, The Tig would point to the form of the likes of Goneva, Ed Slater, Jamie Gibson, Owen Williams and a few others.
There are some who claim Tigers never make any big-name signings. It is not a route the club go down very often. But in response you would argue that the biggest signings of the last few seasons have been Tom Youngs, Ben Youngs, Tom Croft, Dan Cole and Manu Tuilagi under new contracts. Julian Salvi, Geoff Parling and Steve Mafi have also signed new deals in the last couple of years.
In previous seasons the club managed to negotiate new deals with the likes of Alesana Tuilagi and Martin Castrogiovanni.
Any club with those names on their teamsheet should be justifiably proud of their recruitment policy.
Goneva is a new star in the squad and has been described as “world class” by Richard Cockerill this season. His quick feet, mesmeric hands and strength in contact have brought him 11 tries so far and made him a big hit with the fans.
Remember, he came from a French second division club as a 27-year-old and provides further evidence of the club’s ability to spot talent and polish diamonds, and the value of the environment in bringing out the best in the players.
Well done Niki, we look forward to some more big days, big tries and big smiles in the future!
