Saints deny star was knocked out in derby defeat

Northampton Saints have issued a statement following an angry outcry to a an apparent head injury to star player George North.

North appeared to have been knocked out after being after being tackled in the air by Adam Thompstone in the 17th minute.

The 24-year-old left the field for a head injury assessment, after a lengthyperiod of treatment, but reappeared five minutes later and finished the game

North has a recent history of concussions and last year even saw a neurosurgeon to check on his recovery.

The incident drew angry reaction online.

George North took to Twitter to thank fans for their concern.

And last night Saints issued the following statement.

Northampton Saints has issued the following statement about the medical assessment and treatment of George North at Welford Road tonight. George was attended to by the Northampton Saints medical team rapidly after landing on his side following a challenge in the air by Adam Thompstone. George was communicating immediately with attending medics and complaining of neck pain. Significant neck injury was excluded on the field but on review of video footage pitch side, the team followed World Rugby protocols and used a Head Injury Assessment given the potential mechanism for head injury. George was fully assessed by the doctor and passed fit to return to play.

Northampton Saints places the highest importance on player care and their safety is the club's primary concern.