Brett Deacon says the squad is excited ahead of Wednesday evening’s Defender Premiership Rugby Cup match at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
Leicester Tigers take on Newcastle Falcons in a midweek match-up in Round 3 of the 2022/23 campaign.
Speaking at the club’s Oval Park training ground on Monday afternoon, Deacon said there was plenty of energy among those in the mix for selection.
“There is a group in today, buzzing with energy, and excited for Wednesday night’s game against Newcastle,” he said.
“Those guys who were involved at Harlequins are in, going through their recovery, and we had a session on the pitch with those who had a down weekend to prepare for the game on Wednesday.
“Midweek rugby presents a different challenge for the squad but there are no complaints, we are looking forward to the game at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”
The Tigers coach confirmed the short turnaround from Sunday’s Gallagher Premiership away win over Harlequins had delayed selection being finalised.
However, Deacon was quick to point out that the non-negotiable remained the same for whatever players earned the privilege of representing the club.
“No matter what team goes out to represent Leicester Tigers, we want to see a group that are going to fight for one another and work hard,” added Deacon.
“The young guys have that played so far in this competition have done that and we expect the same of whoever is selected for Wednesday’s game.
“If you’re selected to play, you prepare to play and if you are not selected then you help prepare that group of players who are going to represent us all.”
In addition to the short turnaround, the Cup fixture will be the only one for the club this week after the cancellation of the league meeting with Wasps scheduled for Sunday at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
Asked about whether planning had been impacted by the uncertainty of the Premiership schedule for the next month, Deacon replied: “Our next game for the club is Wednesday, so everyone is focused on that."
“We aren’t looking beyond Wednesday evening - that’s what we do, we just look at the next game.”
Discussing the club’s form to date in the Cup competition, Deacon said “improvement” from match-to-match was what they were searching for from the players selected.
“There was a lot in the first game that was very good, from a very young side against a quality, experienced team like Sale Sharks,” Deacon said.
“The fight, the hunger and the effort was brilliant but we ultimately were defeated and disappointed we didn’t get the result.
“Then, in Round 2, we looked to make some improvements - especially in tactical area with the group - and we came away with a win.
“So, in this game, we want to see steps taken forward again by whoever goes out there on Wednesday and we want to see improvements.”
The matchday squad for Wednesday night’s Premiership Rugby Cup fixture will be named at midday on Tuesday, October 18.
