Saints name team for Champions Cup trip to Ospreys

Interim head coach Alan Dickens had made five changes to Northampton Saints’ starting line-up for this weekend’s clash against the Ospreys.

Saints travel to south Wales on Sunday, kick-off 3pm, looking to get back to winning ways after last weekend’s spirited comeback against the region at Franklin’s Gardens fell just short.

Courtney Lawes is rested and Dylan Hartley is out through illness, with Luther Burrell and Lewis Ludlam moving to the bench.

Tom Stephenson comes into inside centre in the only change to the starting back line, having recovered from the hamstring injury has that kept him out since the start of the month, while Ben Foden captains the side on the wing.

Hooker Mikey Haywood packs down alongside Francois van Wyk and Jamal Ford-Robinson in the front row, and Michael Paterson comes in to partner David Ribbans in the engine room.

And the final two changes are in the back row, flankers Jamie Gibson and Tom Wood lining up either side of Teimana Harrison – who wears the No.8 jersey again after an impressive showing last time out.

Saints scored five tries in a whirlwind second half last week but could not haul back the Ospreys before the final whistle, and Dickens takes charge of the side for the first time at the Liberty Stadium.

Tickets are still available for the Exeter Chiefs match at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday 23^rd December, starting from £36 (adults) and £16 (juniors). CLICK HERE to book online or call the Saints Ticket Office on 01604581000.

OSPREYS V SAINTS TEAM NEWS
European Champions Cup Round Four
The Liberty Stadium
Sunday 17 December, 2017
Kick-off: 3.15pm  

Injury update:
Kieran Brookes (hand), Charlie Clare (knee), Tom Collins (foot), George North (knee), Alex Waller (arm), Stephen Myler (calf) and Dylan Hartley (illness) are unavailable for selection.