Vesty targets Leicester return

Leicester fly-half Sam Vesty has targeted a return to the Tigers first team after injury wrecked his 2003/04 campaign.

The 22-year-old underwent groin surgery at the beginning of the year before a ’stinger’ – a nerve pain that shoots down the neck – finally ended his season.

But with a return to full fitness not far off, Vesty is looking for a return to the form which won him the club's Supporters’ and Players’ awards for Young Player of the Season in 2002-03.

He told the club’s official website, www.tigers.co.uk: “I’m hoping to be involved in a least one of the pre-season games, but I can’t say for sure because it’s a slow process.

“I certainly feel like I could play and I’ve taken part in pre-season training, but the truth is I can’t take that final step and take contact just yet as the injury could flare up again.”

“Obviously, it goes without saying that I want to be in the 22. I know I haven’t played in a while, but if I get a spot on the bench hopefully I can force my way back into the starting line-up.”