Marco Manfredi and Tom West among nine leaving Northampton Saints

Italy hooker Marco Manfredi and prop Tom West are among nine players who will leave Northampton Saints at the end of the season.

Manfredi joined the Prem leaders from Treviso-based Benetton in October but has only made three appearances, the most recent against Leicester Tigers in January.

West has had the most game-time among those exiting Franklin’s Gardens, having played 34 games since arriving from Saracens ahead of last season – but only 11 during the current campaign because of injuries, and he is to join Newcastle Red Bulls.

The others leaving are Fyn Brown, Will Glister, Emeka Atuanya, Billy Pasco and three who have yet to play a first-team game, Archie Appleby, Jack Lawrence, and Siep Walta.

“We talk a lot about connection, and about the value of every individual within our environment – the contribution of the whole squad is what underpins our performances,” said director of rugby Phil Dowson.

“Every player at Saints wants to wear the black, green and gold every weekend, and while that isn’t always possible, the professionalism and commitment shown by this group has been exceptional.

“Every one of them has put the club first and played their part in driving standards and supporting the team, while pushing as hard as possible to develop and push their own careers forward.”

Northampton are four points clear of Bath at the top of the Prem table and return to action on 9 May for the East Midlands derby against Leicester at Welford Road.