Saints centre Pisi aiming to get back to his best

And the talented 27-year-old is now ready to get back to his best as he aims to propel Saints to title glory.

Pisi, who arrived at Northampton from Clermont Auvergne in 2011, was named player of the year at the end of his first campaign at the club.

But the Samoan centre struggled for fitness and form last time round, with injuries taking their toll on the player.

“You got through ups and downs in your career,” said Pisi, who scored six tries in 25 appearances last season.

“Last year I got injured a bit and my performance wasn’t as good as it was first year. You learn from it and it’s how you come back.

“This season I’m looking forward to being injury free and getting back to my best.”

Despite his injuries issues, Pisi has never failed to stay upbeat during his time at Saints.

His infectious personality is a key feature of the Northampton squad and after a successful pre-season the player is now looking forward to Saturday’s Aviva Premiership curtain-raiser.

“If you know me, I’m quite upbeat all the time,” said Pisi. “It’s always disappointing to be injured, but that’s just part of rugby. It’s how you come back from injuries.

“It’s been a long summer. I was injured during the last couple of games and just to get some form and get some time in playing it’s exciting to start.

“Hopefully I’ll make the team for Exeter (on Saturday) and what a way to start off, at home, at Franklin’s Gardens.”