Bok duo to leave Leicester Tigers
NEWS: Two Springbok players have been added to Leicester’s ‘leavers list’.
In a statement on Friday, Leicester Tigers have agreed terms with flank Marco van Staden, which will see him depart the club after just one season with them.
He will return to South Africa to continue his injury rehabilitation. According to reports, the former Bulls star still is recovering from concussion.
He hasn’t played for the new Premiership champions since December 2021.
The 26-year-old made eight appearances in his lone season at the club after arriving during the opening months of the 21/22 campaign, after Test appearances for South Africa in the 2021 Rugby Championship.
Utility back Jaco Taute will also be leaving the club.
The Springbok, who moved from Munster to Leicester ahead of the 2019/20 season, made 19 appearances in three seasons at the club.
Meanwhile, Van Staden has opened up about his time with the Tigers.
“It has been a short but unforgettable time at Leicester Tigers,” said Van Staden
“It was an honour and a privilege representing this club and being part of this special group.
“I want to thank every coach, staff member and player for making my time here worth every second and making lifelong friends in a short time.
“To the Tigers supporters, thank you for giving the best and most dedicated support I have ever experienced.”
Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick added: “Marco’s time with us has, unfortunately, been cut short by injury but his contribution to Leicester Tigers during this stage of our journey in a short space of time will not be forgotten.
“He has made a great contribution to Leicester Tigers and been a pleasure to coach, work with and learn from in his time at the club.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I thank Marco – and his wife Chanel – for their part in our success this season and wish them well for their next chapter together.”
The other players that will be leaving Leicester are Sam Aspland-Robinson, George Ford, Ellis Genge, Matías Moroni and Juan Pablo Socino.
