Woods embraces Tigers challenge

Woods is settling in at Welford Road

New Leicester Tigers signing Ben Woods says he has moved to Welford Road to win trophies.

The 26-year-old open-side came through the Newcastle academy system and was part of the Saxons Six Nations squad.

He told BBC Radio Leicester: "This is a club with high standards and we're looking to have a good year this year."

Woods went with England Saxons to the Churchill Cup in 2006 and 2007 and played for the Saxons against Ireland A at Welford Road last February.

The flanker added: "In terms of facilities and everything, it's fantastic. They're up there with the best in the world.

"Leicester have been at the forefront of English rugby for as long as I can remember.

"Every time there is a trophy to be played for, Leicester are there or thereabouts, no more so than in the last couple of seasons."

He is settling in at Welford Road after making the switch from Newcastle during the summer.

"Newcastle Falcons have been a big part of my life for the last seven or eight years, but I think the time is right now to test myself in a different environment," he explained.

"It is going to be a massive challenge moving to a new club after coming up through the ranks at Newcastle and leaving all that behind. But it is an exciting challenge and one I am looking forward to."