Tonks made his debut for Saints in the Heineken Cup against Edinburgh

Northampton Saints replacement full-back Greig Tonks intends to make the most of his first team chance.

The 21-year-old looks set to stand in for England's Ben Foden in the Saints team during the autumn internationals.

But Tonks told BBC Look East: "I'm not deluded, and thinking I should be starting every week over Ben.

"He's a quality player and he's with England for a reason. But I hope I can make the most of my chance. Everyone has to perform and fill big boots."

Tonks was a summer signing to Franklin's Gardens from Leicester Tigers, where he came through the club academy before spending time on loan at Nottingham.

"I'm fortunate because there's lot of input here," he said.

"Foden is doing well with England, [Saints director] Jim Mallinder is an ex-full back and there's Paul Grayson as well.

"From my perspective, I'm picking up hints and tips and I appreciate them passing their experience down to me."

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