Tigers rest Tuilagi

The powerful Samoan wing is replaced by Tom Varndell (pictured) as one of three changes to the side that defeated Wasps 40-26 last weekend, with prop Alex Moreno starting at tighthead and Leo Cullen packing down in the second row.

Tuilagi, along with England duo Julian White and Ben Kay, drop down to the bench for the visit of Bristol, who finished the regular season third in the Premiership to the Tigers' second.

The Tigers have lost just one of their last eight outings - against Bristol two weeks ago when they fielded a weakened side - and will be favourites at Welford Road to continue their pursuit of the treble.

Howard's side have already won the Anglo-Welsh Cup and also have a spot booked in the final of the European Cup against Wasps.

Team: Geordan Murphy; Seru Rabeni, Dan Hipkiss, Sam Vesty, Tom Varndell; Andy Goode, Harry Ellis; Marcos Ayerza, George Chuter, Alex Moreno, Louis Deacon, Leo Cullen, Lewis Moody, Shane Jennings, Martin Corry (capt).

Replacements: James Buckland, Julian White, Ben Kay, Brett Deacon, Frank Murphy, Ollie Smith, Alesana Tuilagi.