Lutonian Nutley learning from the best at Northampton Saints

Nutley, 19, who recently signed a two-year first-team contract at Saints after progressing through the academy system, was in awe of his team-mates on Friday night as they slayed Harlequins 24-3.

Quins were expected to provide a stern test, especially in the back-row with the likes of Nick Easter and Chris Robshaw enjoying superb seasons so far.

But in Phil Dowson, Tom Wood and try scorer Roger Wilson, Saints had players who proved they are among the best in the Premiership.

Nutley was given a brief taste of the action as he replaced Wood after 68 minutes and he admits it was a ‘great feeling’ not only to come on, but to replace one of England’s finest.

“Woody’s been at England, Dows has been at England Saxons and is always knocking on the door,” said the former Luton Town youth team keeper and ex-Luton Rugby star.

“They’re experienced guys, same with Rog, these guys have been playing Premiership level for a number of years.

“It’s good to learn off them, they help you every day, when you make a mistake they analyse it. They’re always the first to come over and help you out if you’ve had a bad day so to be around them is a great learning curve.

“Even to come on for one of them is a great feeling. Here, there’s a lot of competition for the back-row but it’s important I keep learning and I keep improving and hopefully push for a spot one day.”