Delaney is proud of his side's efforts this season

Nottingham director of rugby Glenn Delaney believes his side have a great chance of gaining promotion to the Premiership next season.

Northampton Saints romped to the National One title this season with the Green and Whites finishing third.

But with Leeds coming down from the top flight, Delaney expects the league to be more keenly contested.

"We should be looking to have a go," Delaney said. "If we have our top 15 out I would back us against anyone."

Interview: Nottingham director of rugby Glenn Delaney

In previous seasons, big clubs with star-laden squads like Harlequins and Northampton have gone back up at the first attempt.

It's going to be very tight at the top of the table Glenn Delaney

But Delaney, who this week signed a new rolling contract with the club, told BBC Radio Nottingham: "Leeds won't have the stars that Northampton and Harlequins have.

"But other teams like Exeter are building very, very well and have made a number of signings and will have a big squad next season.

"It's going to be very tight at the top of the table but a lot of people are seeing that we could genuinely have a go at Leeds and I believe that with the talent at our club we should be."