Youngs named Leicester captain

London - England hooker Tom Youngs has been named as Leicester's club captain for the English Premiership team's forthcoming campaign.

Youngs, who missed the end of last season following back surgery, takes over from Ed Slater as Tigers skipper.

The 29-year-old has made more than 100 appearances for Leicester and has also won 28 England caps and featured for the British and Irish Lions.

"Tom is a Leicester man through and through and has special links with the club, where his father and brother have also played. He is a world-class player who leads by example," Leicester rugby director Richard Cockerill told the club's website.

"Tom is supported by a good strong group of leaders within the squad, including Ed Slater, who has done an excellent job as club captain over the last couple of seasons, and experienced players like Mathew Tait, Dan Cole, Tom Croft, Manu Tuilagi, Ben Youngs, Owen Williams and Freddie Burns."

Leicester open their Premiership season against Gloucester on September 2.