Connacht coach Andy Friend has backed his young guns to thrive against Leicester on Sunday in Welford Road.

Three 21-year olds - Oran McNulty, Shayne Bolton and Cian Prendergast - along with 22 year old Niall Murray were thrown in at the deep end at the Sportsground last weekend, and they produced the goods in Connacht's 36-9 victory over Stade Francais.

Andy Friend says that, while Welford Road can be intimidating, a lot of players thrive in such an environment.

Meanwhile, it's hoped that Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham and Mack Hansen will all be available to play following injuries and illness.