LEICESTER BACKING FORD TO ECLIPSE HIS OLD PAL FARRELL

LEICESTER are confident that ‘magical’ George Ford will drive their quest for Premiership glory on Saturday with the same intensity and nous as his good friend and rival No 10, Owen Farrell.

The top-flight final at Twickenham will revolve around a fascinating match-up between the two men who have been the country’s leading fly-halves for so many years — Ford for Leicester and England captain Farrell for Saracens. Steve Borthwick, Leicester’s head coach who worked with the pair during his time in Eddie Jones’ England set-up, said: ‘There are huge similarities between them. They are relentless in their pursuit of excellence. The other similarity is how driven they are to win.’ Borthwick went on: ‘George is an incredible tactical leader and very astute about what the team needs. He has been wonderful all season.’ Leicester full back Freddie Steward added: ‘George is an incredible rugby player who you appreciate more when you play with him. I’m very lucky to be on his side.’