Sale’s spirited performance was not enough to avenge the 35-3 loss suffered away at last year’s finalists Clermont in their previous fixture, but a 22-13 scoreline at the AJ Bell stadium was at least respectable.

Sale have picked up just two points in Europe this campaign as they prepare to face Clermont Auvergne but last week showed their capability to challenge anyone by comfortably beating Premiership holders Northampton 20-7 in the league.

Sale Sharks start their European Champions Cup campaign this Saturday when they welcome Irish powerhouse side Munster to the AJ Bell Stadium