Sale Sharks’ rebuilding plans for next season have gathered more momentum as Steve Diamond beefed-up his squad with a triple swoop.
Outside centre Andy Forsyth joins from Leicester Tigers, Canadian winger/centre Phil Mackenzie from relegated London Welsh and promising hooker Dan Baines from Championship side Rotherham.
And Diamond was quick to praise all three of his new squad members, believing they will fit in well at the Salford City Stadium.
“Andy is a very talented young player,” said Diamond.
“He’s played for Leicester numerous times and is very highly-rated but hasn’t had as many opportunities in the first team as he would like and he wants to impress.
“As regards Phil, he has played really well for London Welsh all season long – he’s a real hard-working lad and I think he will fit in really well here next season.
“In terms of Dan, I believe he has been the best hooker playing in the Championship this season. He’s got big passion, is very ambitious and wants to play in the Premiership.
“He’s still a young lad and this is a big opportunity for him.”
These new arrivals are the latest in Diamond’s squad overhaul, following on from the signings of Michael Paterson, Kirill Kulemin and Charlie Walker-Blair.
Huddersfield-born Forsyth, 22, spent the last four seasons at Welford Road yet has struggled to break into the first team despite being a formidable backline presence and accomplished kicker.
Mackenzie – who scored a try against Sale in a 25-24 defeat – will be joining two of his London Welsh teammates at Sale following the moves of both Tom Arscott and Kulemin.
And Baines joins to add competition for the hooker position after a good campaign with Rotherham, showcasing the raw ability which has caught Diamond’s eye.
Image courtesy of Sale Sharks, via YouTube, with thanks
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