Ollie Chessum glad to be back in the middle

Ollie Chessum made his long-awaited return to Premiership action in last Sunday’s win at Bristol.

The England lock last featured in the league back in October and played the full 80 minutes as Tigers roared back into second place with a 26-19 victory.

“I’m delighted to be back. But, more so, delighted with the performance. We haven’t showed the best versions of ourselves in recent weeks and so it was a reminder to our fans of what we can do.”

Chessum says there is still more to come as Tigers look to give boss Michael Cheika the perfect send-off to his time at the club. He added: “It wasn’t perfect by any stretch, there is a lot that we can do better.

“It has been a frustrating season for me. I love representing this club and so want to be out there every chance I get.”

Cheika said: “It’s not just his quality he brings on the field that is great to have back but, in terms off the team, he has a strong voice and important leadership role.

“In the position we are in fighting for a play-off place, it’s great to have his leadership back. It’s vital.”