Dickson takes over from Hartley as Saints skipper

Dickson first led Northampton in a game against Wasps in 2012 and has made a total of 203 appearances for the club.

He has also been capped 18 times by England, but was cut from the squad ahead of the World Cup.

Hartley is currently serving a suspension - for headbutting Saracens hooker Jamie George in last season’s Aviva Premiership play-off semi-final - that also saw him miss out on a place at the tournament, but he will return to play after his ban ends on September 21.

However, Dickson will now be the man leading Saints out on matchdays, and he says he is honoured to have been given the role.

“It’s a huge honour,” Dickson said. “First and foremost we all know what a phenomenal captain Dylan has been and to have him as part of our circle of leaders will be a massive help for me.

“It’s a job I’ve done in the past and one I’ve really enjoyed, so when Jim (Mallinder) sat me down and asked the question I had absolutely no hesitation.

“I am aware that it is a big role and one that comes with a lot of responsibility, but I can’t wait to take it on and am looking forward to leading the team out.”