“We’ve known for a while but just kept it within the club. We said I could name the baby if it was a boy, but Wor Lass found out I wanted to call it ‘Micky’ so I think she’s gone back on that idea now!”

Not slow to plan ahead, Ward is already planning the career path for his impending arrival, stating: “I’m thinking of getting my welding gear out and making a little scrum machine for the baby. You’ve got to start them early these days man!”

Having been one of five local front rowers to sign new contracts this week, Ward hailed the continuity at Kingston Park as David Wilson, Ross Batty, Johnny Williams and Jon Golding also agreed new deals.

“I had a year left on my current contract, but I’ve signed another year extension so it means I’m here for at least the next two seasons,” said the 28-year-old.

“With the bairn on the way it’s good to have that sort of security, and plus I just love the club and I want to play for them as much as possible.

“The fact that the other four lads in the front row have also signed new deals means we have good continuity in planning for the future, and leaves us in good shape when we look ahead to the next few seasons.”

While July may now be etched firmly in his mind as he awaits the birth of Ward Junior, dad-to-be Micky has the more immediate prospect of Saracens on his mind.

“It’s been a good week in training, because the focus has been there and everyone’s approach has really been spot-on,” he said.

“We’ve spoken about a couple of things that went wrong early on at London Irish last weekend and we needed to work on, but the lads have done that and we’re ready.”

One old comrade in Sarries colours on Friday will be former Falcons skipper Hugh Vyvyan, with Ward stating: “Vyv is back here and will be trying to get one over on us, but we have a proud record at home now and we want to keep that going.

“The atmosphere in our win over Wasps a fortnight ago was more like St James’ Park. There was 10,000 in the ground but it felt like 40,000 when you were out there on the pitch listening to the noise they were making.”

Asked if the tapes had shown up any surprises in preparation for the big game, the Wallsend-born front rower said: “To be honest I’ve played against them that many times that they’re not really an unknown quantity, we know exactly what their strengths are.

“They have a big pack which will really come at us, and if you don’t match their physicality and set piece they’ll punish you. Our set piece has been going well in recent games, and we feel we’ve turned a corner in that area so it should be a good game on Friday.

“We’ve done well against all the top teams who have come here this year, beating people like Wasps, Sale, Leicester, Llanelli and Bristol, so we know what we’re capable of if everyone fronts up on the night.

“We’re going out to play rugby, score some tries, and what better place to do it then in front of your own fans who come and support the team week in, week out. It’s a great opportunity for us.”

Tickets for the game are still available by calling 0871 226 60 60, or by popping to Kingston Park during office hours and on the night.