Leicester Tigers Players Buzzing with Excitement Over Michael Cheika's Appointment
Leicester Tigers scrum-half Ben Youngs has expressed the squad’s renewed enthusiasm following the appointment of Michael Cheika as the club’s new head coach. Cheika, a former Australia and Argentina boss renowned for his achievements with Leinster, replaces Dan McKellar, who left after a disappointing season.
Youngs, speaking to BBC Radio Leicester, highlighted the positive impact of Cheika’s arrival. “Having Michael come in, he is a guy with huge pedigree,” said Youngs. “When he walks in the room, he instantly has that presence and that rugby nous, of having been there, done it, and seen it all.”
Cheika, who led Leinster to the European Champions Cup title in 2009, brings a wealth of experience to Mattioli Woods Welford Road. His appointment is seen as a significant boost for the Tigers, who finished eighth in the Premiership last season, a notable drop from their third-place finish the previous year and their 2022 title win.
Youngs believes Cheika’s extensive background and leadership qualities are exactly what the Tigers need after a season marked by frustration. “So straight away that’s exciting for the squad, given how disappointing our standards were last year and what we expect as individuals and as a club,” he added. “Having someone like Michael generally gets the club excited.”
Cheika’s arrival is expected to reinvigorate Leicester’s ambitions as they look to restore their standing among England’s rugby elite. The Tigers are hopeful that Cheika’s expertise will translate into immediate success on the pitch and address the shortcomings of the previous season.
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