NORTHAMPTON boss Paul Grayson accepts his relegation-haunted Saints face a huge task in their quest for Guinness Premiership points against Wasps on Sunday.

The 2000 European champions will play National League One rugby next season if they lose and do not collect a bonus point at Adams Park - then nearest rivals Worcester Warriors defeat Madejski Stadium hosts London Irish.

Should Northampton sting play-off contenders Wasps or both Saints and Worcester lose, then the relegation issue will not be decided until April 28 when Northampton entertain Irish and Warriors are at home to Saracens.

Grayson said: "Wasps have got quality right across the board. They've got some formidable performers in the pack and a lot of pace and athleticism out wide.

"They play a simple, direct, aggressive game. To counter that, you have got to be up for the fight and that is what we intend to be."

Northampton, with only two away wins in the Premiership all season, have at least received a boost with the return of centre Jon Clarke.

Clarke suffered a broken ankle just 30 minutes into Saints' opening league game of the campaign against Newcastle seven months ago, but a successful return during a mid-week Guinness A' game meant Grayson had no qualms about handing the 23-year-old an immediate first-team recall.

Wasps must win to keep themselves firmly in the play-off picture and although rugby director Ian McGeechan has rested the likes of Lawrence Dallaglio, Tom Rees and Alex King, they will start as firm favourites.

Former Northampton chief McGeechan said: "This game is massive for both teams - we both have a huge amount to play for.

"We know Wasps have got to keep winning if we are going to make the play-offs and that is our focus."