Belleau happy to be on Saints' side in this season's Champions Cup knockouts

Belleau started for Clermont Auvergne in their Champions Cup round of 16 defeat at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens last season.

He made the move to Northampton last summer and is now preparing to start against Castres Olympique in the round of 16 home clash on Friday night (kick-off 8pm).

Saints beat Clermont and Castres at the Gardens on the way to the Champions Cup final last season.

"It's going to be the first time I've played at home against a French team," said Belleau.

"I was on the other side last season with Clermont so it's a good challenge for us to host a game against a French team, especially because it's a knockout game now.

"Castres have had the same squad for two or three seasons now and they did well in the pool phase, they won away to Munster and they're going to try to create good memories and achieve something special here at Franklin's Gardens because they lost twice here last season.

"We have to take it very seriously because they can be very dangerous. We can't wait.

"Playing at home in front of our home fans is a massive thing for us, but also we know they have nothing to lose so that's where a French team can be dangerous. We need to make sure we're ready for that.

"Castres have always been a tough team, very physical in defence and it's a tough place to go and play. With the past few seasons, with the new rules in rugby, they've tried to develop a new philosophy and to attack more.

"It's a good challenge for them to play in two competitions and we'll see their ambition with that."