The back row forward joined the black, green and gold from Ealing Trailfinders during the summer.

And he produced a big performance at No.8 as Saints secured a bonus-point 39-19 win against Leicester Tigers in the PREM Rugby Cup clash at DPD Stadium at Franklin's Gardens last Friday night.

Taylor was asked why he felt Saints were able to produce such a seamless showing against Tigers with a totally-changed team.

And the 24-year-old said: "It's the way we train.

"The amount of touches we get each week gives us so much confidence.

"The coaches just said before the game to go and have a go, and it gives you so much confidence as a player to go out there and if you spot a hole or an opportunity go and do it.

"It's just amazing to be part of.

"The way we train, everyone's on it the whole time.

"Monday, if it's slow feet, move the ball or if it's Tuesday when we're going hard at each other, we prep each other so well so when we come in we can ultimately go out there and put a performance in."

Discussing the seven-try success against Tigers, Taylor said: "I'm massively proud.

"When you build a week and so many players in that team are getting their first opportunity and they're so champing at the bit to go, it's unbelievable.

"To get out there, East Midlands derby, packed crowd - it's where you want to be. It's incredible and I'm so proud."

With Jonny Weimann having to go off on 28 minutes, Taylor stepped up to take over the captaincy.

It is something he's no stranger to, having been skipper at Ealing.

"I had leadership experience before but it probably took a bit longer to come out because we've got so many good leaders in this group so you know you've got to find your time," Taylor explained.

"Jonny Weimann led the boys so well in the week and it was gutting for him to go down because I thought he started the game really well.

"But Dows (Saints boss Phil Dowson) ultimately told me to bring it (the leadership) out of me if I can and I felt like there was opportunity there to go out and lead the boys.

"What a win, and it was very easy to lead."