Mallinder has led Saints from National One to second in the Premiership

Northampton Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder has signed a two year extension to his contract, committing him to the club until at least 2013.

Saints have enjoyed a successful time since Mallinder took over at Franklin's Gardens in June 2007 and currently lie second in the Guinness Premiership.

"I believe he is in the process of building something very special," said Saints' chief executive Allan Robson.

"He has built a team that is playing stylish and successful rugby."

Robson added the club are "delighted" he has signed his new deal.

"I believe all the club's supporters will be as happy as we are," he said.

"Northampton Saints is a club that is hungry for success, on and off the field, and we believe that Jim can continue delivering this in the near future."

Under Mallinder the Saints were undefeated as they won National League One in 2007-08.

I want us to stay at the top end of the Guinness Premiership and become regular contenders in the Heineken Cup over the next three years. Jim Mallinder

They then consolidated their position in the Guinness Premiership last season and won the European Challenge Cup, while this year they are second in the Premiership and going well in both the Heineken Cup and LV= Cup.

Mallinder was coach of England Saxons before leaving for Northampton and he has been tipped as a future coach of the full England side.

But Mallinder says that there is more to achieve at Franklin's Gardens.

"The players, coaches and all the backroom staff have worked very hard to be in contention in all three competitions we are in this season," he said.

"But I want us to stay at the top end of the Guinness Premiership and become regular contenders in the Heineken Cup over the next three years.

"I believe we can achieve this, which is why I have decided to extend my stay for another two years."

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