Having at one stage been chasing the treble, Saints were left with just the LV= Cup to show for their efforts last season.
Saints determined to push rivals all the way
Having at one stage been chasing the treble, Saints were left with just the LV= Cup to show for their sterling efforts last time around.
They impressed over the course of the league season but their hopes of reaching Twickenham ended with two defeats to fierce rivals Saracens.
Director of rugby Jim Mallinder has reacted to the disappointment by freshening up his squad - although his hand has been forced by a number of retirements.
Mallinder has recruited young rising stars such as England Under-20s captain Calum Clark, prop Tom Mercey, fly-half Joe Ford, scrum-halves Ryan Glynn and Stuart Commins and flanker Tom Wood.
Experience
The Saints have also added some experience, with the loss of second row duo Juandre Kruger and Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe offset by the signings of Adam Eustace and Mark Sorensen.
Northampton can also call on the core of last season's squad, including exciting England internationals Courtney Lawes, Dylan Hartley, Chris Ashton and Ben Foden.
The decision of Soane Tonga'uiha to remain with the club is also a huge fillip, especially give the fact Euan Murray's involvement will be limited as he won't play on Sundays due to his religious beliefs.
Despite their end-of-season defeats to Saracens last term, Saints' home form will once again be feared among their rivals.
Skysports.com prediction: Will once again be among the serious contenders for the title, with their home form set to be key. Internationals and the fact Euan Murray can't play on Sundays could hit the Saints, but they have strength-in-depth to cope. Almost certain to be in the play-offs come May.
4th.
