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George North a 'wasted commodity' at Northampton, says former manager

Northampton Saints outside centre George North

George North’s stint at Northampton Saints has been described as “like having a Ferrari in your garage but you can’t find the key” by former team manager Lennie Newman.

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North is to leave Northampton at the end of the season and return to Wales, having signed a National Dual Contract from the 2018-19 campaign.

Though the wing has scored 26 tries in 54 Premiership appearances, his time with the Saints has been hampered by injuries and concussions.

And Newman, whose 21-year association with Northampton ended in 2009, told BBC Radio Northampton: “It’s been a bit like having a Ferrari in your garage but you can’t find the key for it.

“That’s not sometimes through his fault. But there are times when he’s been a wasted commodity and he is a marquee player – one of the best players at the club.

“Personally, I don’t think it’s the end of the world [North leaving].

“You like to keep hold of your best players but to me it’s just very much the king is dead, long live the king.

“We’re not party to this but I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he’s gone for less money, less games and looking after his own interests a little bit more.”

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