Benson signs Northampton contract extension

Archie Benson played his most recent game for Northampton against Exeter on 8 March [Getty Images] Back row Archie Benson has become the latest Northampton Saints player to sign a contract extension tying him to the club beyond the end of this season. The 25-year-old was spotted by Saints playing for National League 2 West side Luctonians and joined them prior to last season. He has so far made 14 first-team appearances for the Prem leaders, eight of them this season.

"Saints have the best coaches to push my game forward but also the best environment to do it in," said Benson, who began his career in Gloucester's academy. "This year has been a big one for my development. I've become more involved in the line-out, learning how to call it and working closely with [coach] James Craig on that side of my game.

" He added: "The aim this season is to play more Prem games and put my hand up for Europe as well. " 'Away end' trial to include Leicester v Northampton derby Northampton hooker Walker signs new contract Northampton's director of rugby Phil Dowson said there was still plenty of room for growth in the former England Under-18 international's game. "He's an important part of our group and very much on the journey with us," he said.

"He's always at it on the pitch – aggressive, competitive and desperate to be involved – and those are qualities we really value. "