North: Saints don’t need to make major changes

The Wales wing has welcomed the signings his club have made this summer, with the likes of Kieran Brookes and Michael Paterson set to arrive at Franklin’s Gardens.

That will help make up for the loss of key men such as Samu Manoa and Phil Dowson, who are moving to Toulon and Worcester respectively.

And North is confident his team can push on to claim major prizes next season after missing out in the knock-out stages of three competitions last time round.

“There were plenty of positives from last season even though we obviously didn’t make the final,” said North.

“It was the first time in the club’s history we had finished top of the league.

“There were highs and lows but looking at results, I don’t think we need to change that much for next season.

“We were not that far off. We had a few big injuries in the semi-final against Saracens, they found their rhythm and ground out the game.

“We’ve strengthened our team and the core is already here, so it is looking good for next season.”