George Smith is a leading contender for player of the season, says Dai Young

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young lamented George Smith's inevitable departure from the Aviva Premiership after watching Northampton unravel at the hands of the Australian.

Smith displayed his playmaking prowess by using footwork and guile to create two tries for man of the match Rob Miller in Sunday's 28-6 victory over play-off rivals Northampton.

The 35-year-old openside flanker, who gave England breakdown coaching during the RBS 6 Nations, is nearing the end of his one-year contract at the Ricoh Arena and has resolved to complete the final instalment of his celebrated career in Japanese club rugby.

His stellar performances have marked him out as a leading contender for Premiership player of the season and Young views him as one of the league's finest imports.

"There's not really any way we could stop George leaving. We'd love to keep him," Young said.

"When he came we knew it would only be for one year. He's been excellent for us and for the Premiership as well.

"You want these types of players in the Premiership and thankfully he's playing for us.

"Everybody is enjoying watching a player of his quality. He's got to be up there for Premiership player of the season.

"It's the unseen stuff that he's given us around the club, not just what you see on the pitch.

"He's so professional in the way he prepares. He's approachable and tries to help everybody. He's a role model for any player."

Smith and Miller combined to provide a low-quality showdown at the Ricoh Arena with two moments to savour as Wasps continued their pursuit of securing home advantage in the play-offs.

The Coventry-based club, who added a third try through Jamie Stevenson in the closing seconds, face Exeter in the Champions Cup quarter-finals on Saturday and Young knows they must improve if they are to defeat the Chiefs.

"We didn't play anywhere near our best and have played a lot better this season. We were edgy and snapped at things," Young said.

"Of course we're happy with the win, but it's tinged with frustration over the way we played.

"We realise that this performance will not be good enough against Exeter. There are lots of things for us to work on and get right."