Ford joins Tigers with immediate effect

Mike Ford has joined Leicester Tigers' coaching staff for the remainder of the season.

The Tigers are currently 10th in the Gallagher Premiership table and in danger of relegation with five games remaining.

Leicester are just five points above bottom side Newcastle and they have turned to former Bath and Toulon boss Ford for help.

Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy told the club's website: "We know Mike well, I worked with him as a player when he was part of the coaching set-up with Ireland and he has a lot of experience at all levels of the game.

"He's coming in for the rest of the season to add another experienced voice to the coaching group and has the full support of the coaches and backroom team."