Exeter Chiefs have emerged from a turbulent season to challenge Ulster in the European Challenge Cup semi-final on Saturday. Former Exeter star Gareth Steenson, now a BBC analyst, highlights the team's resurgence after a record loss to Gloucester led to coaching changes and a squad overhaul.
Steenson, who spent 12 years at Sandy Park, noted that the Chiefs have simplified their game and rediscovered their identity under a new coaching setup. Key signings like Australia's Len Ikitau and Tom Hooper, along with Italy trio Andrea Zambonin, Stephen Varney, and Ross Vintcent, have bolstered the squad.
England wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has returned from injury with four tries in four games, while scrum-half Varney has been praised for his control and kicking game. The match kicks off at 17:30 BST on Saturday at Affidea Stadium, with Exeter aiming to deny Ulster their first European final in 14 years.
"They've worked out what their identity is, they've probably stripped a lot of things back," Steenson said.