WORCESTER Warriors' head coach Jonathan Thomas believes this weekend's opponents, Leicester Tigers, have "gone back to their DNA" in what has been an upturn of fortunes after a disastrous 2019/20 season.

Tigers came bottom of the pile in the last campaign (aside from Saracens who were docked enough points to be relegated) but Thomas says his opposite number, Steve Borthwick, has turned things around at the Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium.

"They have been really clear about the way they want to play and they've been conditioned in that way," said Thomas.

"They have gone back to their identity as a club, which is set-piece, being physical and it's made them competitive. They have gone back to their old values.

"I know Steve Borthwick and he is a quality coach and a quality person, he has brought great leadership and direction to the club.

"Tigers have gone back to their DNA of the old Leicester team. Scrum for penalties, maul for penalties, really direct and pragmatic, kicking well and big ball carries. You know what's coming so the challenge is about stopping it, which is always easier said than done.

"But 100 per-cent that's what we have worked hard on in training this week, to deal with that."

It will be the first game since December that fans will be able to witness a game of rugby on the Sixways turf, as 3,100 lucky few will hope to cheer the Warriors to a win that would end a 16-match Gallagher Premiership losing streak.

"We can't wait to have them back," said the head coach.

"I don't think anyone has enjoyed the experience of not having fans so we are really looking forward to seeing some of them back this weekend.

"I have watched some football and rugby games lately with supporters and it's good to hear the noise and the soul back in the game a little bit."