Mallinder says there’s more to come from player of the month Dickinson

Dickinson has been named Saints player of the month, fending off competition from Luther Burrell and Christian Day.

The 28-year-old has made a huge impact in his first five appearances from Northampton, who he joined from Rotherham Titans in the summer of 2012.

A broken arm ruled him out of first-team action for the entirety of last season, but he has begun with a bang this time round.

Dickinson was named man of the match in the home victories over Exeter and Sale and is now being tipped to receive England honours in the not too distant future.

And Saints director of rugby Mallinder said: “Sam was superb throughout September, and shown why we kept our faith in him during his injury troubles last season.

“It’s easy to forget that he has only played a handful of games in the Aviva Premiership, but he has shown that he can succeed at this level.

“I’m delighted that this has been recognised by the Saints supporters, and hope that this is just the beginning for him.”

Another No.8, GJ van Velze has also picked up a prize at Saints for his work during the previous four weeks, winning the clubman of the month prize.

The South African scored a hat-trick in the Wanderers win over Newcastle eight days ago and has impressed with his leadership and commitment behind the scenes.

“Although he hasn’t been in the first team squad regularly at the start of the season GJ has contributed a great deal behind the scenes in September,” said Mallinder.

“He has been an important player in the Wanderers’ good start to the Aviva ‘A’ League campaign and played a full role in training and in our team meetings and analysis sessions.

“GJ thoroughly deserves his award, as does Sam Dickinson.”