Dylan's delighted to see Saints back in the big time

Chris Boyd's side were recently due to square up to Exeter Chiefs in a Champions Cup quarter-final at Sandy Park.

The global Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to the prospect of that game being played any time soon.

But the fact Saints have even reached the last eight in their first season back in the Champions Cup is a big achievement.

And former Saints and England captain Hartley said: "It's great for them to just be on that stage again, knockout rugby in the big tournament.

"With the age profile of that Northampton team, the experience of playing in that game will be good for them.

"Of course (Europe means a lot to Saints).

"The club has got such a proud history.

"For so many years, it competed at the highest levels.

"In recent years there has been a bit of a lull and they've had to rebuild and redefine themselves."