Bates believes he could be in the manager's chair come next season

Newcastle Falcons coach Steve Bates is adamant he can deal with the pressure their poor form has placed on him.

"The circumstances that we find ourselves in were never going to be easy," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"We haven't won enough games and turning that around is not going to be a short-term process. It'll take time.

"If we get it right, and I'm optimistic, we can be more competitive. I'm not happy with results, but I understand them."

Leicester are a side who have also possibly failed to meet their own expectations and Bates is hopeful his side can deliver a late present for the fans.

"I think Leicester will be expecting to win but it is our job to upset that approach and get to play some of our rugby off the back of it," he said.

"The supporters count. We haven't had a successful season and the fans have been ever-present.

"It's our responsibility to make sure they finish the season feeling positive and proud of this club."