Northampton Saints: Forwards Alex Waller and Mike Haywood sign new contracts

Alex Waller (centre) and Mike Haywood (right) helped Northampton win the 2014 Premiership title

Forwards Alex Waller and Mike Haywood have signed new contracts with Premiership side Northampton Saints.

Prop Waller, 27, and 26-year-old hooker Haywood both came through Saints' academy and have made over 400 appearances between them for the club.

The pair were part of Northampton's 2014 Premiership title winning side.

"Both of them have played a large part in the club's history and no doubt they are to be a big part of the future," director of rugby Jim Mallinder said.

Waller has made 227 appearances in all competitions for Saints since 2009, while Haywood has accumulated 177 games following his 2011 debut.

If picked against Newcastle on Friday, Waller will stretch his Premiership appearance record and play in his 150th consecutive league match.

"We not only want to build a world class team, but build that with a backbone of home grown talent," chief executive Mark Darbon added.

"It's a great testament to our academy system and the two have been a huge part of the club's success over the years."