Mallinder expecting thriller at Gardens

Northampton have never started a Premiership campaign with three successive wins, and Bath last achieved it seven years ago, so early-season form suggests a thrilling encounter under the Gardens floodlights.

"We have taken a lot of belief from our first two games," said rugby director Mallinder, following victories over Leicester and Harlequins.

"We have scored some good tries, defended well at times and have a good team spirit in the squad.

"Bath have started the season really well and deserve plenty of respect."

Bath have four international players sidelined after being hurt during Saturday's bruising success against London Irish.

Wing Matt Banahan, prop David Flatman, hooker Lee Mears and flanker Simon Taylor all miss out, which means respective opportunities for Tom Biggs, David Barnes, Pieter Dixon and Andy Beattie, with summer scrum-half arrival Mark McMillan replacing Michael Claassens.

Bath have moved to recruit US Eagles captain John van der Giessen on an initial short-term contract.

Quins, one of three clubs without a Premiership victory, tackle Sale Sharks in Stockport tonight with England No 8 Nick Easter featuring at lock.

Easter moves to second-row alongside Tomas Vallejos as Tom Guest packs down alongside flankers Chris Robshaw and Will Skinner, with hooker Matt Cairns and prop James Johnston also starting in a reshaped pack.

England wing Ugo Monye (toe) is sidelined, meaning centre George Lowe moving positions and new signing Ollie Smith handed a start alongside Jordan Turner-Hall.

Sale captain James Gaskell makes a quick return after suffering what was initially feared to be a serious leg injury during Sunday's 28-13 loss against Saracens.