LTTV caught up with Joe Ford following the side's final session in preparation for the Anglo-Welsh Cup opener against Gloucester at Welford Road to gain the captain's perspective on the week so far and first match of the competition in season 2017/18.

Asked about how preparations had been under coach Geordan Murphy, the stand-in skipper said: “The week has been really positive and enjoyable.”

While the big-names that have helped Tigers to six victories in their last seven outings may not be on the team-sheet announced earlier today, Ford was quick to hose down any thoughts of a less motivated performance at home.

“It’s still a home game for Tigers, so there is a lot pressure on ourselves to deliver what is expected of a Leicester Tigers team at home,” he said.

While he has acted as understudy to brother George in the opening part of the 2017/18 season, named on the bench in every encounter so far in both Aviva Premiership and European competitions, Ford is excited ahead of both starting at fly-half and in the leadership role.

“You always want to play. It will be good to get out there and play alongside a few blokes who are in the same boat as me,” he told LTTV, before going on to praise club-captain Tom Youngs in his absence. “It is a great honour and I didn’t expect it. Hppefully I can do half the job Tom does.”