Hartley captained the Saints on several occasions last season

Northampton Saints captain Dylan Hartley says he will not change his playing style as captain.

The 23-year-old hooker will lead the Saints in the Guinness Premiership and their two cup campaigns.

Hartley told BBC Radio Northampton: "I've been put here for a reason, because I play the way I play.

"We've got people like Stephen Myler, Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe and Bruce Reihana to add their bit, so my role should be pretty straightforward."

Saints are in Capbreton to face Bordeaux on Thursday, in the first of five pre-season matches.

"Pre-season is about fitness and team building, as well as character building. You get a good team spirit from working hard together, and that's something we want to take into games," Hartley added.

Munster are the opponents for the Saints' opening Heineken Cup fixture. It is a repeat of the clash that saw Saints win the 2000 final.

"It's a big thing for fans and the team. It's the biggest cup in European rugby, and you want to play against the best teams."

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