Elliott and Paterson to leave Saints

Northampton Saints can today confirm that Jamie Elliott and Michael Paterson will both leave the Club at the end of the season.

In eight seasons at Franklin’s Gardens, Bedford-born Elliott racked up 115 appearances in total after making his Saints debut as an 18-year-old.

The Saints Academy product then announced himself in style on his first Aviva Premiership start with a try away at Sale Sharks, making himself a regular on the wing for Northampton over the next few seasons.

The 25-year-old scored 34 tries for the Club in total and helped Saints to a sensational Premiership and European Challenge Cup double in 2014, but injuries have restricted his playing opportunities since midway through last season.

“The game is all about making memories, and I’ve made a lot of them over my eight seasons at the club – not just on the pitch but also off it,” said Elliott.

“It’s been an honour to step onto that pitch alongside so many teammates that have become friends, and I wish the Club every success in the future.”

Paterson meanwhile joined Saints for the start of the 2015/16 campaign from Sale, with the Kiwi-born lock bringing a raft of experience to Northampton’s second row.

He notched up a half-century of appearances in Black, Green and Gold earlier this season against Ospreys, and ends his time at Franklin’s Gardens with 60 appearances to his name.

“Having the privilege of playing with this group of guys is something I will always look back on fondly,” Paterson said.

“To be able to run out in front of the crowd at Franklin’s Gardens is always an incredible experience and I'm immensely proud to have played for Saints more than 50 times.”