Leicester Tigers lure English player from Japan

TRANSFER NEWS: Leicester Tigers confirmed Freddie Burns back to the club ahead of the 2021/22 season.

The 30-year-old, currently playing for Toyota Jido Shokki in Japan, returns to Leicester for a second stint at the club where he made 75 appearances between 2014-17.

Burns began his professional career with Gloucester in 2007 and made his Test debut in 2012 after representing England Under-20s and Saxons.

He joined Leicester in 2014 and scored 603 points for Tigers in three seasons, before moving to Bath Rugby ahead of the 2017/18 campaign and then to Japan for the 2020/21 season.

Speaking about the addition of Burns from next season, Leicester Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick said: “We are looking forward to welcoming Freddie back to the club from next season.

“He is an experienced Premiership player who has played international rugby and will be a valuable addition to our squad.

“I have been impressed with the way Freddie has spoken about wanting to be a part of what we are building at Tigers and his determination to be a leader in our squad.”

Burns added: “I can’t wait to be back in Leicester and part of the club again.

“I can see the changes in the team and clear identity of the squad with Steve and want to be a part of that.

“I am coming back to compete and want to be playing in the Premiership once again.

“Tigers fans are so passionate and I always had such a good connection with them, they are definitely a reason why I want to come back to the club.”