Fotuali’i revelling in extra Saints game time

But the Samoan scrum-half is keen to avoid slipping up, with youngsters Alex Day and Ryan Glynn eager to earn their chance in the Saints first team.

Fotuali’i has been in fine form of late, pulling the strings in the 34-16 victory against Newport at Rodney Parade last Saturday.

And with Lee Dickson away with England, he looks certain to keep his place at nine for a crucial run of Premiership games following the conclusion of the LV= Cup pool stages this weekend.

“For me it’s just about getting more game time and improving,” said the Samoan star. “Now with the internationals away, it gives me the chance to play a bit more.

“We’ve got some good scrum-halves coming through as well, so the pressure’s still on and I’ve got to perform.

“I’d like to play every week. When you get the boots on and the excitement and energy comes back, it’s just the enjoyment of being out there with the boys and playing some footy.”

Fotuali’i formed an impressive half-back partnership with Glenn Dickson at Newport last weekend, steering Saints around the field in tricky conditions.

And the scrum-half is enjoying building a relationship with the Kiwi kicker.

“We haven’t had too many combinations together but off the field we talk a lot and we’ve got a good understanding,” said Fotuali’i.

“The more we play together the better the understanding will get on the field.”