Sale Sharks have announced Steve Diamond’s eighth signing of the close season, with Leeds Carnegie playmaker Joe Ford joining the ranks at Salford City Stadium.
Oldham-born Ford has played a pivotal role in Leeds’ march to the Championship play-offs this season, establishing himself as one of the nation’s leading playmakers.
Sale co-owner Ian Blackhurst is adamant the talented 22-year-old has a glittering career ahead of him after a stellar year of development over the Pennines.
“It’s a great signing for us as Joe is a very exciting player,” said Blackhurst.
“He has been in outstanding form for Leeds this season and played very well in their Championship play-off game against Newcastle last weekend.
“At just 22 years of age it’s obvious that Joe’s best years are ahead of him and he will be another important addition to our playing squad.”
Ford is the son of former rugby league star and England union coach Mike and the elder brother of Leicester Tigers wonder-kid George.
He spent a season with Northampton Saints before returning to Leeds and is a player Diamond has been tracking for some time.
Ford can play at full-back as well as fly-half, and his metronomic kicking ability will boost director of rugby Diamond’s options next term.
The Englishman joins London Welsh trio Tom Arscott, Kirill Kulemin and also Phil Mackenzie, Michael Paterson, Charlie Walker-Blair, Dan Baines and Andy Forsyth in signing for Sale.
Image courtesy of ESPN via YouTube, with thanks.
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