Lamb has fond memories of Saints stay

The fly-half took to the field for the final time in a Saints shirt last Saturday, as they suffered a Premiership showpiece defeat to the club he will join this summer, Leicester Tigers.

The enigmatic No.10 has divided opinion in Northampton since he arrived from London Irish in the summer of 2011.

But despite some tough times, including receiving the occasional boo from small sections of the Gardens faithful, Lamb says he’s relished his time at Saints.

“I’ve enjoyed my two years here,” he said. “It’s been fantastic. We’ve been close (to titles) on many occasions and then fallen at the last hurdle.

“I’ll go away with a lot of fond memories. Franklin’s Gardens has been absolutely fantastic and with the lads and squad Northampton has got, I’m sure they’ll bounce back.

“It’s been great to be part of it, but you’ve got to look forward to the challenges ahead. Leicester are a great side as well and it’s nice to stay in the east midlands derby.”

Lamb was unable to finish with a flourish as his future team deprived Saints of a fairytale ending at Twickenham.

Jim Mallinder’s men fell to a 37-17 defeat against their local rivals, but Lamb was proud of his side’s efforts and is now looking forward to what lies ahead.

“It’s a new challenge, it’s really good,” he said. “Leicester is a top club. They haven’t been in so many finals by fluke.

“They are one of the best sides in England and it will be nice to go up there and try my hand at that, but I’m leaving with a lot of disappointment and a lot of pride as well.”