Steve Borthwick praised the effort of his Leicester Tigers squad following the bonus-point win over Northampton Saints at Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Friday night.

Speaking at full-time, the Tigers Head Coach refused to single out one player, highlighting the efforts of his entire matchday squad from the 15-point, 35-20 win.

“The players should be really proud of their efforts tonight,” he said.

“There were a lot of really good performances out there.”

While proud of his side, Borthwick said the focus would immediately - for the coaching team at least - switch to areas for improvement.

“As ever, we look for how we can improve and there are areas to work on from tonight’s game,” said Borthwick.

“The side showed a great amount of composure but some of the opportunities we created weren’t executed.

“I think we allowed Northampton back into the game, but what was pleasing was the spirit the players showed to ensure victory.”

More than 20,000 fans were in attendance at Tigers HQ for a third time this season and Borthwick applauded the efforts of those in the stands in similar fashion to the way he spoke about his side’s efforts on the field.

“They play a big part every week, home and away, and were in such brilliant voice tonight,” said the Tigers boss.

“It was brilliant to see Mattioli Woods Welford Road so busy and so loud.

“We missed having supporters in the stands for so long, I hope they come away proud of their team tonight.”

Tigers travel to Somerset next weekend to face a Bath side who have welcomed a host of stars in recent weeks and will have their own home crowd behind them at The Rec.

“The players will have a well earned rest and recuperate this weekend, then come in on Monday ahead of next Saturday’s game against Bath,” Borthwick said.

“Bath have welcomed back some big names in recent weeks and, at home in front of their supporters, will be a big challenge next weekend.”