Thursday 01 May 2008
Robinson in Saints exit

Northampton have confirmed that New Zealand international Mark Robinson will leave Franlin’s Gardens.

The scrum-half is the highest-profile player to depart, heading a list that includes flankers Darren Fox and Paul Tupai, prop Chris Budgen and lock Christian Short as Saints prepare for their Guinness Premiership return.

Rugby director Jim Mallinder said: “Every player this season has played their part in the promotion back to the Guinness Premiership.

“Competition for places has been fierce and standards have been maintained throughout the season.

“I would like to thank each player who is leaving for their efforts, and wish them the best for the future.”

New arrivals include exciting Sale Sharks prospect Ben Foden, Ulster forward Neil Best and Foden’s current team-mate, Sharks lock Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe.

But it looks as though South Africa’s World Cup-winning second-row forward Victor Matfield could decide against a move to the Premiership.

Matfield, thought to be a £300,000-a-year target for Saints, is currently at French second division club Toulon, where he took up a six-month contract in January.

He faces a decision between Northampton and a return to Pretoria-based Super 14 side Bulls, with the South Africa option now looking favourite.

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