Nuneaton want Tigers link

EMERGING fly-half Rickie Aley returned to Leicester this week after a brief spell at Liberty Way which Nuneaton coach Mike Umaga hopes will lead to a stronger link between the two clubs. Aley delivered a glowing endorsement of his time at Nuneaton where he played in their last two National Division Two games, a win over Halifax and a battling defeat at Otley.

The talented 17-year-old, who will play in tomorrow's game between Leicester Academy and England Under Under-18s at Welford Road, was loaned out in order to gain match experience in a pressure situation, and Umaga is happy that the situation suited both parties.

"Rickie was called back this week which is way these things go, but he has spoken highly of his experience here and from reports we've had back, Leicester feel that the time he spent with us has had the desired effect," said Umaga.

"I'm glad that we had the opportunity to have him at the club and I think we both benefitted from it.

"It worked well, and I'm looking to have a few more guys like him here training with us as we go forward for next season."

Howard Graham was recalled at fly-half, which has been one of Nuneaton's problem position all season, for Saturday's game at high-flying Manchester as the only change from the side that went to Otley.