Leicester full-back Freddie Steward has undergone surgery on his thumb, but Tigers hope to have the England international back in time for their Prem title challenge.
The 25-year-old was hurt late in Sunday’s victory at Sale Sharks, which guaranteed Tigers a top four finish and secured them a place in the Prem semi-finals.
Steward, who was part of the Leicester side beaten by Bath in last season’s Grand Final, has again been instrumental for Tigers this season – starting 19 games in all competitions.
Three years earlier, Steward helped Tigers win their 11th Premiership title with a narrow victory over Saracens.
Tigers head coach Geoff Parling could not offer a specific timescale on Steward’s recovery, but did say “we’re hopeful he’ll be back before the season’s end.”
