Murray joined the Saints after the World Cup last year and helped them to secure promotion to the Premiership after suffering the agony of relegation 12 months previously.

The tight-head prop played in nearly half his club's matches despite arriving in the Midlands late due to the World Cup and also with six weeks away from Franklins Gardens on RBS 6 Nations duty.

His season was not completed after Saints won promotion either as the man from Glasgow headed to Argentina to play in Scotland's two Tests against the Pumas.

He and the rest of the Northampton squad – including current Scotland right wing Sean Lamont and former Test prop Tom Smith –  will play a series of friendlies before the match against Worcester on September 6, which is followed by trips to Newcastle and Saracens and a home game with Wasps.

“There are no easy games in the Premiership and September will be a massive challenge,” said Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder.

“Worcester got better and better towards the end of last season and Wasps are always tough opponents. Newcastle, Saracens and Leicester (October 1) will also be difficult trips. One thing is certain – we will be taking each game as it comes and giving it our best effort.”