Saints boss Dowson discusses Moon's summer move to Bayonne

But Dowson has pinpointed Tom Lockett as a player who can step up and fill the void at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens next season.

On Friday evening, Bayonne announced that lock Moon will join them on a two-year deal this summer.

Saints had hoped to keep the 27-year-old, who made his 115th appearance for the black, green and gold as a replacement in the 38-13 win against Newcastle Falcons on Saturday.

Dowson was asked about Saints Academy graduate Moon after the Falcons clash.

And he said: "It was announced very quickly by the French club.

"We were still in negotiations with him this week and we're very sad because we wanted to keep Moony.

"But there are market forces, not being involved with England, he was looking for a new opportunity so unfortunately he'll leave.

"We're lucky in that area that we've got lots and lots of quality, and Tom Lockett was man of the match for Bedford last night so he's someone we've got a lot of hope for.

"Clearly we'll miss Moony, both on and off the pitch in terms of his character, but we wish him the best and we move on."