Manu Tuilagi aims to be fit for start of new season after knee surgery

England international Manu Tuilagi is hoping to be fit for the start of the new season for Leicester Tigers after undergoing a knee surgery.

The 27-year-old missed England's tour of South Africa in June due to a chest injury but managed to return at the end of the previous season for the Welford Road unit but since had underwent a minor knee operation.

"It was a really minor procedure and I am back in training. I'm really excited for new season," added Tuilagi.

Meanwhile, Leicester Tigers head coach Matt O'Connor emphasised on the need to make Tuilagi more "resilient" and keep him away from injuries.

"He carries the ball a lot for us," he said. "He is a huge focus for the opposition.

"We have to try to make sure he is that little bit more resilient around playing as many games as possible for us."

Tuilagi, who last featured for England in 2016 was not named in the 44-man training squad by head coach Eddie Jones.

Leicester Tigers' Gallagher Premiership will kick-off on 1st September with a clash against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on 1st September.