Steve Borthwick previews Friday night’s showdown with Northampton Saints, importance of the East Midlands Derby to Tigers Fans and why Leicester is the envy of the league.

“We are going to need to be at our best on Friday up against what is an incredibly dangerous Northampton side,” said Borthwick.

“I think they have got a phenomenal attacking game.

“The way they move the ball, the way they put together that phase attack is exceptional and will be a big challenge for us to try to contain.”

The Tigers Head coach also complimented the work his Northampton counterparts ahead of the meeting on Friday evening.

“Chris Boyd has clearly done a fantastic job over the years that he has been there and you can see the influence of Sam Vesty,” added Borthwick.

“These are top class coaches who have created a brilliant team.”

Discussing the latest edition of the East Midlands Derby, which doubles as the 50th match in Premiership Rugby history to be played between Tigers and Saints, Borthwick said the focus in Leicester remains the same as every week.

“Our focus this week, as it always is, has been on how we get better as a team and preparing as best we can to put in a performance that makes our supporters, our families and everyone at Leicester Tigers proud,” he said.

However, while the playing group may be taking it day by day, Borthwick understands the extra spice in the match-up for Tigers Fans, who he rates as the game’s best.

“This is an exciting game on Friday night and one we are looking forward to and we understand how important this game is in terms of the history for fans,” added the Tigers boss.

“I feel very privileged to be at Leicester Tigers, a club that has the best following in the competition.

“There is a lot of things we don’t have but I think every club would want what we have in our supporters.

“But, from our point of view, my players get excited about every game because every game is important … and I want them playing as hard, as tough in every game.”