The Nuneaton-born 38-year-old made 40 first team appearances for Tigers as a player between 1985-95, scoring 16 tries.

Meanwhile, the club confirmed that physiotherapist Mark Geeson and head fitness and conditioning coach John Duggan have left the club.

Chief Executive Peter Wheeler said: "We have appointed Darren to oversee the whole of the conditioning and rehabilitation operation."

Geeson has been at Tigers for 10 years, and had already stated his intention to leave at the end of the season to concentrate on his private physiotherapy practice.

Duggan, the former Leicester wing, who scored 158 tries in his 302 club appearances between 1970-80, had also approached previous Director of Rugby Dean Richards and asked for a reduced role next season.

Wheeler said: "We have used this opportunity to review our entire medical and rehabilitation support, as this is one of the major areas of concern that we have had over the past few months as we strive to provide the best possible back-up for our players.

"Both Mark and John have been here throughout the professional era, and have been extremely dedicated members of staff. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them both for all their efforts."

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