England a good fit for Picamoles

Editor

France number eight Louis Picamoles believes that playing in the Premiership is only going to benefit his game after he moved to Northampton.

The 30-year-old, who decided to take up the new challenge after being with Toulouse since 2009, is ready for a big season at Franklin’s Gardens.

And the international star thinks that his switch to England is a positive one as he looks to get Saints on the front foot with his dynamic style of play.

“Maybe it is more physical in France, but here all teams want to play a fast game, and this is good for my progression,” he told BBC Radio 5 live.

“In France we see that the English teams are more competitive than before, and we have seen that in the Champions Cup.

“So with a lot of foreign stars [in the Top 14], maybe more French players will want to try this experience in England. I think the English league is growing.

“It’s a big change for me and my family, but we are very much enjoying starting a new life and a new adventure.”

If still with Toulouse, Picamoles would be playing his first Top 14 match of the season this weekend, a schedule he feels is not good for players.

“In England it is better for players,” he said. “It’s the first time I have had a big pre-season to prepare for the season, and it’s very good for me and my body.

“It’s a big problem in France, it is very dangerous for the players’ body and head. Maybe fewer teams in the championship (Top 14) and fewer matches is the solution for France.”