England and Northampton Saints full-back Ben Foden believes that the current Saints squad have the potential to better performances of recent seasons.

Critics questioned the club's ambition following the summer departure of influential winger Chris Asthon, but Foden has spoken in his team's defence.

"I feel better about this squad than I have in previous years," Foden told BBC Sport.

"There's a lot more strength in depth. We've been written off but we stand a better chance this year.

"The new players have got some big shoes to fill but we've still got the same attitude and mentality."

The Saints opened the season with a 24-19 win away at Gloucester.