Northampton re-sign Prop Karl Garside

Northampton Saints have today confirmed that prop Karl Garside has put pen to paper on a new deal to remain in Black, Green and Gold.

The 22-year-old tighthead signed his first professional contract at Franklin’s Gardens last season after impressing director of rugby Chris Boyd while on loan from Championship outfit Ampthill.

Garside became Saint number 1997 in October 2018 when he made his full debut against Bristol Bears in the Premiership Rugby Cup, but since then he has notched up six first-team appearances for Saints, including two in the Gallagher Premiership.

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“I’m absolutely delighted to extend my stay with Northampton Saints,” he said. “This is a great Club with a fantastic playing environment, and I feel like I am growing as a rugby player every day here.

“Getting the opportunity last season to play rugby at the very top level was a huge breakthrough for me, and I’m really excited about the prospect of signing on again so I can push for a regular place in the side.”

Garside began his rugby career at Oaklands College and featured in the RFU’s AASE League. At club level the 125kg prop also enjoyed a stint with Old Albanians before joining Ampthill, and he has also represented both Hertfordshire and England Counties.

EADIE AND MITCHELL TO LEAVE SAINTS

Meanwhile Northampton Saints can also confirm that Mitch Eadie will be leaving the Club at the end of the season, while James Mitchell has been released following the conclusion of his short-term contract.

No.8 Eadie has made 31 appearances in Black, Green and Gold to date – scoring five tries – and will re-join hometown club Bristol Bears for the 2020/21 campaign onwards.

Mitchell was initially signed from Pro14 outfit Connacht back in August to provide cover at scrum-half, and in total notched up seven first-team appearances for Saints.

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