Leicester jeweller Lumbers is again hosting the voting for the monthly awards via its website www.lumbers.co.uk and supporters can vote at any time for the players they think have contributed most to the Tigers’ cause.

The England and Lions player Tom Croft played a leading role in the stalwart defending at the Stoop which allowed Jeremy Staunton to kick five penalties to give the Tigers a 15-9 Guinness Premiership victory over Harlequins.

Tom, still just 23 years old, also played in the home victory against Newcastle Falcons, and thought he had scored an opening try only for play to be pulled back.

Tom is now in contention for the Tigers Player of the Season award next year, with a Graham watch worth more than £4,500 to be awarded by Lumbers.

Dominic Gomersall, managing director of Lumbers, said: “Tom has got off to a good start this season, after last season impressing all Tigers fans and wider supporters of England, the Lions and rugby generally. Good luck to him for the rest of this season.”

Head coach Richard Cockerill said: “The attitude of Tom and the whole of the Tigers squad has been excellent. The aim now is to build on a solid start and the performances over the opening month of the season.”

Croft said: “I think we are progressing as a team and the performances are encouraging. Leicester supporters are the best going, the best supporters you can have. The new Caterpillar Stand, running out to that for a home game, I don’t think you can beat it.”