GRITTY Yorkshireman Josh Bates is on his way back to Premiership Leicester.
Former British Under-21 Champion Bates is a firm favourite with the Beaumont Park crowd for his never-say-die attitude and exciting style.
He joins Grand Prix star Martin Vaculik and hot Polish prospect Krystian Pieszczek in an exciting Watling JCB Lions line-up and is thrilled to be back.
“I like it at Leicester and I’m pleased to be sorted out to go back there,” he said.
“I adapted well to the track and I feel very much at home. The fans are very enthusiastic and I seem to have a lot of support there so it’s a logical move for me.
“I always give it my all whoever I ride for and the Leicester public know that’s what they’re going to get from me in 2018.
“I’m also really excited by the way the team is taking shape and I know there are exciting plans for the rest of the team.
“For me to be riding alongside one of the top riders in the world like Martin is great for me and I think it’s tremendous for Leicester to have a rider like him next year.”
Bates admits top priority is for the club to win their home matches.
“If we can make it a fortress at home that would be tremendous,” he said. “If we want to make it to the play-offs we have to be tough to beat at home and pick up some points on the road.
“I’ll certainly be doing my bit for that and with the prospect of no fixture clashes we should have a pretty settled side. I can’t wait to get started.”
