Club profile: Northampton

Tom Smith (c) is a huge signing for Saints

Six-time Test Lion Tom Smith has been the major summer arrival at a redeveloped Franklin's Gardens, but a host of big names have also departed.

Without the services of Pat Lam, Allan Bateman, Tim Rodber and Gary Pagel, Saints could struggle this term, if their other top performers, Matt Dawson and John Leslie fail to hit their peak.

The Franklin's Gardens side failed to capitalise on their historic European Cup success last term, being ousted at the group stage in a disappointing defence of their crown.

They finally finished the season fourth place in the Premiership, automatically qualifying for the trophy they won at Twickenham in May, 2000.

Alongside Leslie, Saints added All Black Andrew Blowers to their squad during the season and fly-half/full-back Paul Grayson provided a boost when he signed a new one-year contract that will continue to utilise him as a player alongside a role as the club's specialist kicking coach.

Scottish ace Smith replaces crowd favourite Pagel, with former Wallaby back Peter Jorgensen joining the club from Rugby League side Penrith Panthers in Australia.

Facts and figures:

Ground: Franklin's Gardens
Coach: John Steele
Captain: Budge Pountney
Last season: 4th

Players in: Tom Smith (Brive), Peter Jorgensen (Penrith Panthers RL), Chris Budgen (Birmingham/Solihull).

Players out: Pat Lam (Newcastle), Allan Bateman (Neath), Matt Allen (Cardiff), James Bramhall (Sale), Tim Rodber (retired), Garry Pagel (retired).