Day believes Paterson is perfect signing for Saints

New Zealand-born Paterson has agreed to join Northampton from Sale Sharks, where his performances won him an England call-up last season.

And the 29-year-old, who has yet to win a Test cap, will hope a move to Franklin’s Gardens can fuel his international ambition.

Though he is primarily a lock, Paterson can play in a number of positions, just like American ace Manoa, who will leave Saints for Toulon at the end of this season.

And experienced second row forward Day said: “Losing someone of Samu Manoa’s talent, who can also play any position in the back five, is a real problem in terms of your squad depth.

“He can play eight, he can play second row, he can play six and there are very few players who can do that.

“Michael Paterson has displayed that he can play eight, six and second row to a very high standard, so he comes in as a very athletic, quality rugby player.

“Hopefully he complements the assets we have here already and takes us another step forward.”