Newcastle Red Bulls make ANOTHER signing as winger joins from northern rivals

The 22-year-old winger arrives after scoring seven tries in 13 appearances for Sale and is already familiar with life in the North East.

The Leeds-born flyer previously studied accounting and finance at Newcastle University, where he played for the university team before earning opportunities with England Under-20s and the Sharks.

“I came through Yorkshire’s academy and moved up to Newcastle to play for the Uni team, which is where I got picked up by England Under-20s and Sale Sharks,” said the 6-foot-1 winger, who has also played Championship rugby for Caldy RFC and Doncaster Knights.

“I know all about life in Newcastle so the club didn’t need to give me the sales pitch in that sense, and it’s an exciting time on and off the field.

“It’s well documented regarding all the improvements around the club under Red Bull’s ownership, and it’s great to be heading over there at the same time as my Sale team-mates Raffi Quirke and James Harper. With Raffi in particular I’ve already got that attacking synergy, so hopefully we can link up and score a few tries between us.

“Having spoken to the guys up at Newcastle it’s clear the level of ambition they have, and I’m buzzing to get up there and rip in.”

Discussing what he hopes to add to the squad, Ene said: “I’d like to think I have power in the carry and dominance in defence, and like any winger you want to bring speed and footwork.

“The high ball is such a big part of the game now, which I’ve been working hard at, but I’m just keen to keep learning and improving.”

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy welcomed the signing and believes the winger has significant potential.

“Obi is a talented young player who will fit in well to our system.

“He is a northern lad who has shown some very encouraging signs during the early part of his career, and I’m looking forward to seeing that progress continue when he joins us in the summer.”