Leicester are not expected to be fodder for any side and the champions of England are bound to make a strong defence of their title. The squad lacks some of its usual depth but the same applies to most English teams (although the Tigers charge during the Six Nations was fuelled by the strength of their squad.
This season they will want a fast start and with Georden Murphy the club captain there is no reason to expect anything less. His appointment is a warning for all other clubs. The grind of the pack will be present but the backs will look to build on the extra ambition witnessed late last season. Richard Cockerill has made a fine beginning to his career as head coach. He is comfortable enough to trust the backs to balance the Tigers book and come up with another profitable season.
In terms of newcomers, Geoff Parling can leave his potential behind in Newcastle and reveal himself as a complete forward. Richard Blaze should also have a decent season while Anthony Allen will look to find the bits of his game that Gloucester never quite filled in. Leicester, as much as they would hate it, might find themselves loved as well as respected this time around.
Prediction:1st