Warrior Johnson to keep going

Will Johnson insists he will not alter his style despite his history of injuries.

Leicester Tigers back row Will Johnson prepares to go back into the firing line against Gloucester on Friday, having just recovered from serious injury.

The 31-year-old suffered a broken rib and punctured lung against London Irish back in November, which was just the latest setback in a long list of injuries.

However, Johnson knows the important role his experience will play whilst Leicester's top players are away on Six Nations duty, and he revealed he is not about to change the way he plays the game.

"If you go out there thinking you are not quite right you will go in half-hearted and end up hurting yourself," said the Tigers forward.

"I don't keep hurting myself doing the same thing. I would stop doing it if that was the case. It's a different thing every time.

"But you can't let injuries get to you. You have to get through it and get out there and play.

"I've found myself thinking: 'Why did that happen?' but you just have to stop thinking about it and come back refreshed."

A crunch game awaits Johnson and co on Friday, as they visit fourth-placed Gloucester at Kingsholm.

Victory for the Cherry-and-Whites would see them leapfrog the Tigers, but Johnson says it is a challenge he always looks forward to.

"It's always an experience there. It's quite an old stadium and a small changing room.

"There's quite a lot of amusing banter with the fans and it's usually aimed at Austin (Healey), so we can all have a laugh at it.

"Gloucester fans have a reputation for being a bit one eyed, but they are fair and appreciate it when you do something well."