Northampton Saints have responded to claims by Cameron Shepherd's agent that the player is planning to take legal action against the club.

Shepherd's agent Nick Fordham said that the player was left feeling "appalled" after his new contract with the Saints was terminated because of an ankle problem.

A club statement said that the Saints "refute Mr Fordham's allegations", adding that "the club's initial concerns were raised several weeks beforehand".

The club have also said that they will "vigorously defend any legal proceedings which are served".

Shepherd subsequently signed for Sale Sharks.