Leicester Tigers scrum-half Ben Youngs believes that this season's Bath Rugby team are a different prospect to last term.
The two sides clash at The Rec on Saturday, both heading into the game with 100 per cent records following the Tigers' 24-20 win at Exeter Chiefs last weekend.
Speaking in the build-up to Saturday's contest, Youngs said: "It will be a new challenge going there. They've strengthened their squad again and guys like George Ford continue to get better."
His team-mate and older brother, Tom, was also quick to praise the Bath forwards.
"They have a very good pack," he said. "They are good at mauling from lineouts and we will need to match fire with fire."
The England hooker also spoke about the prospect of next year's World Cup, offering words of encouragement for any players who feel they may have dropped down the pecking order.
"Anyone has the potential to make the World Cup squad," he said. "If you have a fantastic season, whoever you are, you will probably open the door up and Stuart Lancaster will end up selecting you, or at least having a look at you."
