Alex Day is targeting a breakthrough season with Aviva Premiership giants Northampton Saints, but would not be averse to another stint in the ultra-competitive Championship.

The former St Joseph’s College pupil was an integral part of the England Under-20 squad that lifted the Junior World Championship crown in France, in June, and is now eyeing more personal glory as he looks to become established at Franklin’s Gardens.

However, with England international Lee Dickson and Samoan star Kahn Fotuali’i ahead of him in the pecking order, Harwich-born Day would be prepared to drop back down a division as he did last season at Moseley, in order to gain experience.

“Obviously it’s going to be tough to get into the first team straight away and I am prepared to sit back and learn from the players in front of me, it’s a good experience,” said scrum-half Day.

“I wouldn’t be opposed to to going out on loan, playing a few games and honing my skills, if I am not going to be playing much in the Premiership.

“My main aim is to make the first team at Northampton though.”

Saints kick off their Premiership season at home to Exeter a week on Saturday and Day is going through his team’s final pre-season preparations as they aim for a tilt at the league title and Heineken Cup.

He may have to bide his time with the Saints but should he be called upon, the 20-year-old will be ready.

“Pre-season has gone really well,” said Day, who featured for the Saints in this summer’s JP Morgan Sevens and the World Club Sevens.

“I have moved up to senior level now and I am a lot more involved in every training session, but it is also less forgiving than at academy level.

“My aim was to bring my form back from the world championships, try hard in training and, if there are any injuries in my position, hopefully play well in the first team. I hope I have made a good impression.”

Day’s involvement with the England under-20s has now come to an end but that will not stop him targeting further international honours.

“Winning the Junior World Championships was a nice way to sign off with the under-20s,” said Day.

“I am now looking at breaking into the Northampton first-team squad and, after that, to be selected for the England Saxons and eventually the senior squad.”