Coles Determined to Overcome Fragmented Season

Northampton Saints lock Alex Coles has opened up about his challenging 2024 campaign, describing it as "a fragmented season" plagued by minor injuries. The 25-year-old England hopeful made his return as a second-half substitute in Saints' disappointing 33-0 Premiership defeat to Leicester Tigers last Friday.

Injury Woes and International Aspirations

Coles revealed to BBC Radio Northampton:

"I've not really strung any games together this season. Several minor injuries have halted my momentum at crucial times, including during the autumn internationals when I was meant to be with England."

Despite these setbacks, the academy product remains focused on two key objectives:

1. Securing consistent game time for Saints in their remaining fixtures
2. Pushing for inclusion in England's summer tour to Argentina

Saints Facing Transition Period

After last season's Premiership triumph and Champions Cup semi-final appearance, Northampton have struggled to maintain consistency. Currently sitting eighth in the league, the team has:

• Lost several experienced players including Courtney Lawes and Lewis Ludlam
• Shown flashes of brilliance but lacked week-to-week consistency

Coles described last year's success as "a bit of a fever dream" and emphasized the need for current players to step up:

"We've held the mirror up to ourselves after Leicester. With so much potential in this squad, we need to ask if we're doing enough to drive the team forward."

Crucial European Clash Looms

The Saints face a pivotal Champions Cup last-16 tie against Clermont Auvergne on April 4. First, they must regroup for Friday's Premiership trip to Sale Sharks - a match Coles sees as vital for rebuilding momentum:

"Sale are extremely organized, but our focus is on getting back on track. I'd love to repay our supporters with a performance they deserve."

By the Numbers: Coles' Contribution

• 124 first-team appearances for Northampton since joining at 13
• 5 tries in 24 games during Saints' title-winning 2023-24 season
• 8th - Northampton's current Premiership position

Alex Coles was speaking to BBC Radio Northampton sports editor Graham McKechnie.