Northampton Saints flanker Tom Wood has attributed his improved performances to forwards coach Dorian West.

The 24-year-old joined Saints last January, and played for England Saxons against Ireland A that same month.

"Dorian is bringing a lot to my game. If you underperform, he's not shy in telling you," Wood told BBC Look East.

"Having him, Jim Mallinder and Paul Grayson - and the senior players like Phil Dowson and Roger Wilson - I'm learning all the time."

Saints travel to Welford Road to face rivals Leicester Tigers in the Aviva Premiership on Saturday at 1700 GMT.

They were 27-19 winners over Tigers at Franklin's Gardens on the opening day of the season.

"It was a great way to start and we've got to try to recreate that," said Wood.

"It's not just the points, it's the bragging rights and the confidence."

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