Sanderson played for Birmingham & Solihull in the Championship

Northampton Saints have signed Dan Sanderson on a contract until the end of the 2010/11 season.

The 26-year-old lock made his Saints debut in the LV= Cup draw with Saracens, having also played for Birmingham & Solihull this season.

"It's all come as a bit of a surprise. I was really excited to make my debut, and felt honoured to be trusted with the chance," said Sanderson.

"I've got a contract, but now I know I have to prove my worth."

A year ago Sanderson was playing for Derby in National League Three Midlands.

Saints Academy manager Alan Dickens recruited him to the Wanderers, where he played 'A' League rugby and combined training with the Saints first team with his job as a plasterer.

"He got me down here and it's all gone from there. I'd certainly not considered rugby as a career up until that point," said Sanderson.

Director of rugby Jim Mallinder said the contract was a reward for the hard work Sanderson had put in over the past few months.

"Dan has shown his commitment to developing his rugby by combining his job with his training, but it is not just that which has earned him a contract," said Mallinder.

"He has talent as well, which he has shown consistently both in the Wanderers and with Birmingham and Solihull.

"Now, with the contract, he has time to apply himself full-time on the training pitch and in the gym and we will be looking for him to improve even further over the next few months."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version