There is no let up for Sharks as they welcome reigning champions and table-toppers Northampton tomorrow who are on a seven-game winning streak and six points clear of the chasing pack.

Sharks may have nothing but pride to play for as they face the return fixture away to Saracens in the European Rugby Champions Cup tomorrow, however flanker Andrei Ostrikov insists his side won’t roll over just because they are out of contention.

A win on Tyneside against Newcastrle on Sunday in round nine would move Sale closer to director of rugby Steve Diamond’s Christmas points target and strengthen their claim for a top six place.

Captain Dan Braid scored the only try of the match just over 10 minutes from time, after both sides traded penalties, to give Sale a 16-12 win at Twickenham Stoop.

Both Sale and London Irish have endured poor starts to the campaign with only two wins each leaving them near the foot of the table separated by only a point.

Sale Sharks second row Jonathan Mills is hungry for more European rugby after his first taste of the highest level against Munster and Clermont.

Sale Sharks youngster Cameron Neild believes the squad are looking ‘onwards and upwards’ after a less than impressive start to the season.

Former England international Mark Cueto has stressed the important role senior players have in guiding the development of younger members of the team, and is hopeful of contributing towards a successful season for Sale in what is likely to be his last

Sale travel to leaders Northampton on Saturday, where they have not won for over eight years

Sale will be keen to respond with their second home victory in the league after last week’s dismal performance away at Saracens.

The 34-year-old loosehead prop signed for Sale in 2003 and was part of the Sharks’ 2005/06 Premiership winning side.