Maybe it was time for new man to inspire us

THE Tigers’ performance against Gloucester – the best seen at Welford Road for some time – needs some explaining.

While Geordan Murphy’s departure has caused ructions in some quarters, it’s all about people! Geordan is a warm lovely man; he was a brilliant player loved for his abilities, so he has a strong presence in many supporters’ hearts.

We don’t know how he was told he was leaving – how much notice or in what spirit, so there is bound to be speculation that there will be resentment.

Steve Borthwick arrives and, I’m assuming, is a different character; a harder man, with a definite aim to get Tigers back to the top. Not the man perhaps you would love to be with, but a man who can inspire and give support to develop a top team.

I’ve loved Geordan and if he went in a cloud I’m seriously sorry, but I have welcomed and supported Borthwick – Tigers needed his “like”.

I don’t know if he was responsible, but Richard Wigglesworth joining Tigers will turn out to be the signing of the season.

I watched him talking to players during the game – he was nothing short of sensational in my book, and with the excellent Ben Youngs likely to miss a high proportion of league matches on England duty, it was a very smart move indeed.

So while Murphy leaving is not going to satisfy everyone, for me I’d say “thank you Geordan, you were brilliant but perhaps it was now time for a change”.

I’m sure we all wish him well. Borthwick is welcome and, by the looks of the way Tigers played against Gloucester, he’s started something worthwhile.

It’s early days but keep your eyes on the forward play and attitude.

This could be one hell of a season and the sooner a crowd gets back in the better.

Mike Ross, Wigston