Manu Tuilagi's return to full fitness could be a boost to Leicester Tigers' hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Aviva Premiership, according to stand-in captain Ed Slater.

The centre has been out since September, but has now recovered from a pectoral injury and with the Welford Road outfit looking to hold on to a playoff place, Slater believes that Tuilagi's return could be crucial.

He told Sky Sports News: "Manu is a huge part of the squad. He is a world-class player and with him back to fitness it will boost the rest of the squad at a key time."

The Tigers, who are only three points ahead of fifth-placed Harlequins in the Premiership table, travel to the North-East on Sunday to face Newcastle Falcons.

Written by
Chris O'Keefe