Diggin determined to keep the momentum going

And while immediate attentions have now returned to the race for the Aviva Premiership play-offs, Diggin knows that positive results over the next two weeks will have an impact on more than just their chances of domestic success.

"It's the semi-finals of the European Cup, we've been here a few years ago and just missed out, so hopefully we can get a bit of momentum now going into that," Diggin told the Northampton Chronicle and Echo.

"Perpignan are another good side and it's going to be tough.

"We've got Newcastle on Friday night to deal with, so hopefully we'll keep the momentum going for our season, keep in winning ways and when the semi-final comes around we'll be working hard."

Northampton face three league games in eight days prior to the crucial clash with the Catalans in Milton Keynes.

First up is a trip to basement boys Newcastle this weekend, followed by two more away fixtures at Gloucester on Tuesday and London Irish a week on Saturday.

It's a harsh test of the Saints' double-winning credentials but Diggin insists he and his team-mates will focus on working hard rather than cursing the fixture schedule.

"It's tough. It's unfortunate we've got that rearranged game but it's a game we've got to play and that's why we've got such a big squad," added Diggin.

"We'll test our squad out and maybe there might be some mixing and matching. But this time of the season you've just got to bite your lip and get on with it."