Bristol to lose two rising stars to Northampton

Mitch Eadie and Jamal Ford-Robinson will leave Bristol at the end of the season and join Northampton.
In a statement released yesterday, the West Country outfit said it “tabled offers to both players and were eager to retain their services, but their belief that they could be guaranteed Premiership Rugby elsewhere proved the deciding factor.”
Eadie has made 126 first team appearances since his debut in 2010, while Jamal Ford-Robinson, rumoured to be on his way to Northampton, has made 36 appearances following his arrival from Cornish Pirates.
Bristol head coach Mark Tainton said: “Both players would have played a significant role in developing what we are building at Bristol Rugby, so we're very disappointed to see them depart at the end of the season.
“We have tried to get Mitch and Jamal to stay, but they have chosen to move on and the key for us is to ensure that they continue to perform in a Bristol shirt until May.”
Saints Director of rugby Jim Mallinder was on the other hand delighted and said: “Both Jamal and Mitch put in impressive performances when we played Bristol at the start of January but we have been watching them for some time.
“We've liked what we've seen and believe that they have the ambition and quality to have a big impact here at the Saints. We're looking forward to seeing them improve further as part of our squad here at Franklin's Gardens.”
Eadie commented: “This was one of the most difficult decisions me and my family have had to make. I've come through the Academy system and Bristol is the Club that gave me my chance in the game.
“I've experienced many highs and lows since I started here and Bristol Rugby will always be a club close to my heart. Professional rugby is a short career and I couldn't turn down an opportunity to further my international and domestic ambitions with an established Premiership team.
“I have a great affinity with the supporters and my team-mates at Bristol, I'd like to thank them and the coaching team who have supported me throughout my career. For the remainder of the season, I'm wholly committed to keeping this Club in the top flight.”
Prop Ford-Robinson, 23, added: “It's been a hugely enjoyable two years at Bristol and the support from the rugby community in the city has been fantastic. I'm grateful to the coaching staff for developing my game – I have worked really hard under Mark Bakewell and the management to improve.
“The supporters have been magnificent towards me and I appreciate how welcome they have made me feel here. Until the end of the season, I will be doing everything I can to help my teammates and achieve Premiership status for Bristol Rugby.”