Doran-Jones desperate to get another chance at Saints

The tighthead prop has been unable to make it into the Northampton matchday squad of late, being kept out by Tom Mercey and Brian Mujati.

And with the England Saxons player poised for a switch to Harlequins this summer, he may not play another minute for Saints this season.

But Doran-Jones is not letting frustration get the better of him and is working hard on the paddock as he bids to return for the final flings of the season.

He said: “Obviously it’s tough not playing, you always want to be involved. The boys have been doing really well, both (Mercey and Mujati) are playing really well.

“I went away with the England Saxons and Merce really took his chance. He’d been chomping at the bit for ages so it’s great to see him doing well and it’s good to see Mooj playing well off the bench.

“Hopefully there will be another chance for me before the end of the season, but I’m just training hard and keeping my head down.”

Failing to make the matchday cut is a new experience for Doran-Jones, who was a key figure for Gloucester before moving to Franklin’s Gardens in 2011.

And he admits it’s been difficult to watch on while his team-mates have battled it out with the likes of Leicester and Wasps in recent weeks.

“It’s difficult at any period, not playing, but especially home games like we had against Leicester Tigers and away games at places like Wasps, they’re games you really want to play in, it’s what your career’s all about,” he said.

“It’s a new experience and it’s one that I’m learning as I go. At any point in someone’s career you have to find yourselves out of the squad.

“I’ve been fortunate with injury and it’s about trying to stay professional, training hard and trying to get better.

“This is the perfect chance for me to try to improve and if I do get that chance before the end of the season I’ll be fresh and raring to go.”