Tigers full-back Steward undergoes thumb surgery

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."