Diggin a huge fan of ‘amazing’ Elliott

And the former Northampton wing is hoping to see his successor hit even greater heights at Franklin’s Gardens this season.

Elliott was part of a Saints side that clinched an Aviva Premiership and Amlin Challenge Cup double last season.

The 21-year-old scored seven tries during the silverware-laden campaign and Diggin, who called time on his career this summer, couldn’t have been more impressed.

“I thought Jamie was amazing last year,” said the 29-year-old, who now has a coaching role at the Gardens. “He’s one of my favourite players down here. His work rate is unbelievable.

“He just doesn’t seem to have a bad game and I hope he has another great year like that this year.”

When asked whether Elliott was better than he was as a player, Diggin smiled before replying: “He’s much better than me. I’m rubbish. Jamie’s a very talented footballer.”