Waller: Isiekwe arrival will bring the best out of Saints stars

Isiekwe will arrive on a year-long loan from Saracens for the entirety of the 2020/21 campaign.

And the 21-year-old certainly has plenty of pedigree, having played more than 50 league games for an all-conquering Saracens team and having represented England.

Isiekwe can play in the second row or the back row and he will add to a squad of talented young English players at Franklin's Gardens.

"Nick is a professional and he's going to come here and do a job," Saints co-captain Waller said.

"This profession isn't set in stone as to who starts and who doesn't and when you rest on those laurels is when you get yourself in a bit of a pickle.

"It happened to me and I've been open and honest about the fact I got a bit comfortable with Dorian (West) always picking me as first choice and I let my guard down a little bit.

"You let someone come in and you're out of the team so I gave myself a kick up the backside and I think I've been going pretty well this season until my Achilles decided to explode.

"Having top level players only brings the best out of other people.

"If you sit in your comfort zone, nothing can develop from there.

"I'm looking forward to building a great squad.

"I'm looking forward to getting back out there, either finishing this season or starting afresh and hopefully looking for some silverware next season."

Waller has faced Isiekwe on numerous occasions and is impressed by what he has seen.

"I've played a fair bit against Nick," said the 30-year-old prop.

"Obviously Northampton and Saracens have had some pretty good games and Saracens have had the better of it during the past few years.

"But the tide has started to turn and the opener this season (which Saints won at Allianz Park) was pretty good for us.

"Nick's credentials speak for themself.

"He's been involved with England and he didn't get there by chance.

"He's got some great players around him in that Sarries setup and I think he'll add to our squad and bring something to it that will only benefit us.

"Having a wide variety of players and top level players is what breeds competition within.

"It's what causes teams to win trophies and hopefully he will enjoy his time with us.

"I'm sure he'll bring plenty to the squad and I'm looking forward to working with him."