Rugby: Tom Pearson returns to Northampton training as Saints prepare for Leicester Tigers derby

The England flanker is closing in on a comeback, while Luke Green has also resumed training and four rested internationals could return at Welford Road.

Tom Pearson has returned to Northampton Saints training after a hand injury, giving Phil Dowson another option to consider before Saturday’s East Midlands derby at Leicester Tigers.

The flanker has yet to feature in the Premiership or Champions Cup this season. His return to training is a step towards ending that absence, although Dowson has not confirmed whether he will be available this weekend.

Speaking on Tuesday, in comments reported by the Northampton Chronicle & Echo, Saints’ director of rugby said Pearson was making progress.

“It’s great for TP because he’s been frustrated and it won’t be long before he’s back out there,” Dowson said.

Tom Pearson nears return after missing start of league campaign

Pearson’s absence has denied Northampton a player who made 22 appearances and scored six tries during their title-winning 2025–26 season.

He started the Premiership final victory over Exeter and signed a new contract in September. At the time, Dowson highlighted his ability to cover different back-row positions and the development of his work at the maul.

There is encouraging news elsewhere in the pack, with tighthead prop Luke Green also back in training. Lefty Zigiriadis and Tom Litchfield remain longer-term absentees.

Manny Iyogun, Alex Coles, Henry Pollock and Tommy Freeman are expected to come back into contention after being rested for Sunday’s 28–12 Champions Cup victory over Cardiff.

Saints return to Premiership action having beaten Bath 71–48 in their previous league outing, when Ollie Sleightholme scored a hat-trick in an 18-try match.

Saturday’s derby kicks off at 3.05pm UK time at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.