England fly-half George Ford could still be on the move at the end of this season, with no new deal confirmed yet with Sale Sharks. Despite hopes that an extension might be signed soon, fresh reports suggest his future may lie elsewhere.
Will He Stay or Will He Go?
In late September, rumours from France suggested Ford was close to extending his stay with Sale Sharks. The French press claimed Ford was keen to continue his career in the North West, despite the tempting lure of Toulon. This isn’t the first time he’s rebuffed the French side, having done so once before in 2016.
Family Ties Hold Strong
Ford’s decision seems closely tied to his personal life. Settled in the North West with his wife Atdhetare and their daughter Alarnia, born earlier this year, Ford has expressed a desire to remain close to his family. He even shared his family joy via the Oldham RUFC website, strengthening the belief that staying put might be his priority.
Clermont Comes Calling
However, fresh reports from Neil Fissler at RugbyPass suggest the fly-half may yet make the leap across the Channel. Clermont Auvergne have entered the race for his signature, with Bordeaux-Bègles and Castres also reportedly interested. Whether these offers are genuine or a negotiation tactic from Ford’s camp remains to be seen.
England Commitments Could Sway Decision
Ford’s international career may also weigh heavily in his decision. England head coach Steve Borthwick has reportedly reassured the fly-half that he remains vital to the national team’s plans. With his 100th cap on the horizon and key roles in the 2024 Autumn Internationals and 2025 Six Nations expected, Ford may find the pull of England too strong to ignore.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
