Springbok flank Marco van Staden is free to return to South Africa after being released from his contract with Premiership champions Leicester Tigers after just one injury-hit season with the English club.

Leicester Tigers on Friday announced that the club has agreed terms with Van Staden, which will see the flanker depart the club and return to South Africa to continue his injury rehabilitation.

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The 26-year-old made just eight appearances in all competitions in his lone season at the club after arriving during the opening months of the 2021-22 campaign, after playing for the Springboks in the 2021 Rugby Championship.

Van Staden last played for Leicester in the Boxing Day fixture against Bristol Bears and has since been recovering from a long-term concussion.

“It has been a short but unforgettable time at Leicester Tigers,” the flanker said. “It was an honour and a privilege representing this club and being part of this special group.

“I want to thank every coach, staff member and player for making my time here worth every second and making life long friends in a short time.

“To the Tigers supporters, thank you for giving the best and most dedicated support I have ever experienced.”

Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick added: “Marco’s time with us has, unfortunately, been cut short by injury but his contribution to Leicester Tigers during this stage of our journey in a short space of time will not be forgotten.

“He has made a great contribution to Leicester Tigers and been a pleasure to coach, work with and learn from in his time at the club.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I thank Marco – and his wife Chanel – for their part in our success this season and wish them well for their next chapter together.”

Leicester also confirmed that experienced utility back Jaco Taute will be leaving the club.

Taute moved to England from Irish side Munster in 2019, but only made 19 appearances in three seasons with the Tigers. The three-cap Springbok returned from a long-term knee injury in March, but only played 10 minutes before getting injured again.

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