Tigers the Barcelona of rugby - Agulla

Argentina winger Horacio Agulla has called Leicester the 'Barcelona of club rugby' as he looks ahead to an Aviva Premiership season at the Tigers.

The quick-footed international, who made the move to Welford Road during the off-season, is currently enjoying his first months in England.

And with fellow Pumas Marcos Ayerza and Lucas Amorosino on board, Agulla is already hailing the Aviva Premiership outfit with compliments.

"I wanted to leave Brive because of the financial difficulties there and, after two years of being in France, I wanted a change," he said, speaking to the Leicester Mercury.

"It was a dream for me when I heard of Leicester's interest. They are like the Barcelona of rugby.

"When I listened to what Marcos, Lucas and Castro said about the club, I knew it would be a perfect move.

"I spoke a lot to Marcos, and after I had spoken to Richard Cockerill and Simon Cohen, it was a very easy move for me to make.

"It helps having Marcos and Lucas here but all the rest of the guys have been really good too. I have never seen any of them who thinks he is better than anyone else. That is amazing. That is why Leicester are at the top all of the time."

Nailing down a starting spot will be extremely tough for the nimble Argentine though, as Richard Cockerill has Scott Hamilton, Alesana and Manu Tuilagi and Amorosino at his disposal. Lee Robinson has also been in-form during pre-season, scoring a hat-trick.

But Agulla has explained that all he can do is continue to improve and hope that chances come his way.

"It's a big challenge because there are so many good players here," said Agulla.

"I will give my best and try to play in as many games as I can.

"When you are competing with the best, they make you grow up as a player. You have to be 100 per cent all of the time. You never relax. Someone always wants your shirt.

"There is competition between me and Lucas and I hope we will both be happy if the other one plays.

"I am looking forward to getting out on the pitch at Welford Road because the supporters and fans here are amazing. I know that Castro is a God here.

"I hope I can play at Welford Road against Leinster next week.

"I have already played there once with Argentina but now it is bigger and better.

"I have loved my time here so far. This is a rugby city and there is a good atmosphere."