Northampton expect George North to be cleared by medics for Friday night

North had a six-month spell out of the game in 2015 after a clutch of high-profile head injuries.

Northampton expect George North to be cleared by specialists to return to action in Friday's Aviva Premiership clash with Sale Sharks.

Wales wing North has been stood down since appearing to lie motionless following a dangerous tackle from Adam Thompstone in Saints' 19-11 defeat to Leicester on December 3.