Cockerill's side start the season away to fierce rivals Northampton

Leicester Tigers coach Richard Cockerill says his side face a tough start to the new Premiership season.

Leicester face Northampton, Exeter, Wasps, Leeds and Saracens in their first five matches.

Cockerill told BBC Radio Leicester: "It's just important we have a good start with Saints away. It'll be an interesting local derby.

"It's a tough start those first five games but there's a lot to go through in the season, it's a long, hard slog."

Cockerill added that he will not be underestimating Premiership new boys Exeter when they visit Welford Road on the second weekend in September.

"I think they'll be competitive, they're well-coached," he stated.

"You have to treat them with the respect that's due to them."

Defending champions Leicester will be looking to win their fourth Premiership title in five years next season.

Cockerill also confirmed his squad is now complete and he is not expecting to make anymore signings.

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