Sale Sharks statement: Marland Yarde's departure 'a sticky subject'

Yarde confirmed in a statement last week that he was arrested for a serious offence in January, but that no charges had been brought and he was free to resume his professional career.

“He left by mutual agreement. That was sometime in the summer because of all the negative press and all the association,” Sanderson said.

“This is a sticky subject because I care for him and his family and I was the correspondence for him and his mum, so I am not going to go into his mental state or the difficulties he has had over the last eight months which have been extreme. Extreme.

"I can just say right now from what I hear he is in a good place and he is looking to keep playing the game.”

“In January, as I think it is known by some of the rugby community, I was arrested on suspicion of having committed a very serious offence.

“A necessarily lengthy police investigation followed but I can now confirm that no further action is to be taken against me. I have not been charged with any offence.

“Whilst I never doubted my innocence, I understand that the investigation had to be handled with care and sensitivity for the protection of all involved.

“Although innocent of the crime alleged against me, I take full responsibility for having put myself in a situation where an allegation could be made against me.

“I am working hard to improve as a person using what the incident has taught and shown me. I want to apologise to all my family and friends for the hurt and distress I have caused them.

“Their love and support gave me the strength to see a positive future, and I look forward to resuming my career doing what I love which is playing rugby.”

Using several interviews with various sources from down the years, we’ve formed Joe Marler's dream team of the players based on the players he bestowed with the most acclaim.

Marler on Leonard: "My Idol - I still pinch myself when I'm in his company. A juggernaut on the pitch and a legendary drinker and socialiser off it."

Marler on Farrell: "The only indispensable player is Farrell. He is to England what Cristiano Ronaldo is to Portugal, or what Steph Curry is to the Golden State Warriors. With his leadership, ability and drive, England are a different animal. Owen takes things by the scruff of the neck, just like his dad."