Tigers Sweat on New Signing Hougaard

The 25-year-old South African international, who kicked the winning score for the Blue Bulls in the 2007 Super 14 final, signed for the Tigers in July and has been unable to train with his new club since his arrival in England.

Hougaard was brought in to replace Andy Goode and will miss Tigers' season opener at Gloucester and could be in doubt for the two-time Heineken Cup champions' European Round 1 clash with the Ospreys.

"It has been really frustrating getting here and then not being able to train with the guys on the pitch. But I am starting to run a bit and do some light weights. Hopefully I can get some game-time in around two weeks time."

Despite having signed a new contract with the South-African team Blue Bulls, Hougaard decided to opt out and follow his former coach Meyer to Leicester.

"I thought I would finish my career at the Bulls but it was a great opportunity for me when this came along. The chance to think about winning a Premiership and the Heineken Cup means that I could retire with a smile on my face."