Kahn Fotuali’i says he’s really enjoying working with ‘funny bloke’ Lee Dickson at Saints.
And the Samoan star believes the battle for the club’s No.9 shirt will bring out the best in both players this season.
Dickson has been Northampton’s first choice scrum-half for a number of seasons, but is set to face stiff competition from Fotuali’i.
The former Ospreys ace is one of the world’s most highly-rated players in his position.
He caught the eye in the Heineken Cup last season and for the Barbarians against the Lions this summer.
Fotuali’i impressed in his first game for Saints, at Bedford on Friday night, and he’s already loving life at the club, with Dickson keeping him entertained off the pitch.
“He’s a funny bloke, you know,” said Fotuali’i. “He’s pretty competitive so it’s good for both of us. He’s a good player and the competition is going to keep both of us on our toes.
“It’s good to have that competition. We can help each other out on aspects we need to improve on.
“We’ve got on well and I’m looking forward to the season with him.
“I want to have that good competition, having someone else to compete with, and Lee’s a quality player.
“We can learn off each other, help each other out and try to nail down a spot.”
Fotuali’i and Dickson will form one of the most-feared No.9 departments in Premiership rugby this season, giving Saints the spark they need to get plenty of ball to other members of their impressive backline.
The likes of George North and Ben Foden will thrive on the space created by their scrum-half - whichever one gets the nod - and Fotuali’i is looking forward to showing what he can do in competitive games.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far,” said the 31-year-old, who played 40 minutes in the friendly at Bedford. “It’s been positive and I’m looking forward to getting the season started.”