Cheika determined to leave Tigers on a high

MICHAEL Cheika is determined to leave Leicester on a high having decided not to extend his one-year contract with the club.

- By PAUL REES

Cheika, who has coached Australia and Argentina at Test level as well as the Waratahs, Leinster and Stade Francais, asked for a one-year deal because his family were in Australia but admitted it was a tough decision not to stay on.

“I was used to being away from home for six months when I was involved in international footie and one year was ok,” said Cheika, whose side went into the Premiership break fourth in the table.

“The decision to come to Leicester was very much last minute. We were living in Europe and planning to head back to Australia in a couple of weeks which is why I asked for one year — I had to work out what it would be like living away.

“Year on year was not what we had planned as a family but it was a tough call to make. I went back and forth over it so many times and even talking about it now is difficult.

“My kids wanted me to stay because they love coming to the games and supporting Leicester but I felt it was something I should stick to.