The Welford Road man, who became the club’s youngest player at the age of 16, is happy with the relationship he has with his father outside of rugby.

But he knows that dad Mike will be on hand to provide any help and advice that Ford can glean from a wealth of experience gained from a career in both codes.

Ford said, “Dad helps me out in every way he can without being pushy.

“It’s important that we have a normal father and son relationship as well as the rugby, but having a dad who’s a coach at international level obviously has benefits.

“He has a lot of experience and advice to pass on and that’s important for my development.”

Though the 17-year-old is representing England at under-20 level, he still has to strike a balance between a fledgling career and his education.

Though based in Leicester, the Oldham-born fly-half is still an A-Level student in the North West and Ford feels this is a balancing trick he has so far managed well.

“My school is up in Manchester where my family home is, but obviously I’m in Leicester most of the time training so I get my school stuff sent down to me via email,” he added.

“It's important to stay motivated with the work and I think I’m doing ok – the school, the teachers and the club have all been really understanding and I’ve got a bit of time to get it all finished.”