Northampton Saints discipline George North for missing training session

By Adam Ellis
Northampton Saints have said George North ‘accepts’ disciplinary measures taken against him after he didn’t play in the club’s match against Sale Sharks.
North was dropped from selection for the Premiership clash earlier this month having missed a training session in the days leading up to the 25-34 defeat at Franklin’s Gardens.
Saints technical consultant Alan Gaffney responded to questions surrounding North’s absence by saying in a post-match interview, “In one sense it’s probably best to ask George. We picked a side that actually wanted to be out on the pitch and picked the best side for the game for Northampton.
“I’m just disappointed he wasn’t here.”
Taking action against the wing, Northampton chief executive Mark Darbon commented:
“George accepts the disciplinary action we have taken,” said the Premiership club’s chief executive Mark Darbon.
“George has enormous affection for this club and its supporters, and is fully committed to helping the club finish the Premiership season as strongly as possible.
“We now consider this matter resolved and won’t be commenting further.”
The Welsh international’s five-year stay in Northampton will come to an end at the end of the season after signing a National Dual Contract with the WRU last November.
Almost five months on, the battle between the four Welsh regions for the wing’s signature has been narrowed down to the Dragons and Ospreys.