Northampton let Cameron Go

Northampton who was due to sign Australian Cameron Sheperd has pulled out of the deal because of his fitness related issues. Cameron Sheperd had agreed to sign a contract with Northampton for three years after finishing his commitments with Western Force. But the deal did not go through as the team was advised against signing the Australian by the medical team.

Jim Mallinder, the director of the club told the club’s official website that it is important for the team to get the most out of its squad in the season and with Cameron’s fitness problem, this seems very unlikely.

He also said that their campaign was extremely demanding as they have to play a minimum of thirty two games in the Aviva Premiership Rugby, LV Cup and the Heineken Cup. Hence they need to get the most out of the squad but having monitored Cameron’s condition between the signing of the contract and his arrival at the club, they felt that he was not fit enough for the club’s standards and demands.

He also mentioned that he was disappointed with the fact that the deal did not go through as he believes that Cameron is a good player. But he was confident of the squad’s ability to have a good season. They have set high standards and targets fro themselves which can only be achieved with a fully fit and tight unit. That is a must.

He also took the opportunity to remind everyone that they have signed some exciting new players such as Dom Waldouck, Ken Pisi, GJ Van Velze and Luther Burrell. These players were warmly welcomed to Franklin Gardens, the club’s home ground and the manager believes that they have a lot to offer to the squad in different positions. These players have settled comfortably to the new surroundings and conditions and have started bonding well with the rest of the squad. The pre season training is on for Northampton as the players along with the fans are looking for a good start to the new season.