Goodbye to Lam as Saints lose faith

Pat Lam, British rugby's newly-installed Player of the Year, found himself on the transfer market yesterday following Northampton's refusal to extend his contract beyond the end of the season.

As a further reminder that rugby has become as ruthless a business as any, the 32-year- old Samoan will be leaving the Saints in May - just a year after leading them to their European Cup triumph over Munster at Twickenham.

Lam, back in action following shoulder surgery, said: 'The decision is a shock. I'm saddened at the prospect of having to say goodbye, but I realise that rugby is a business and the team comes first. I am not part of the club's future plans but I shall continue to give everything for the rest of the season, then sit down with the family and decide where we go next.'