Sale Sharks have signed versatile full-back Jason Woodward on a one-year deal ahead of the 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership season.
Alex Sanderson's men had been linked with Mike Brown following Simon Hammersley's shock retirement, but have opted to sign the better value for money former Bristol and Gloucester man.
Woodward, who can also play on the wing and in the centre, put pen to paper today and will join Alex Sanderson’s squad ahead of their opening pre-season clash against Caldy RFC on August 19.
Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “After speaking with Jason it was clear he was still motivated to perform at the highest level, and he was keen for a move North to join the Sharks.
“Jason is a proven Premiership performer who will add a great deal of quality and experience to what is a young squad here.
“He has the ability to play in a number of positions and that’s a massive bonus for us with such a busy schedule ahead.'
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5 England internationals who are free agents – and where they might end up
We take a look at five England internationals who are still free agents after being released by their respective clubs at the end of the 2022/23 Premiership season.
#1. Mike Brown
- Age: 36
- Position: Fullback
- Caps: 72
Four clubs remain in contention to sign the former England fullback following his departure from Newcastle Falcons.
Brown, who has already revealed he will pursue a career as an agent when he hangs up his boots, is being lined up as a potential replacement for Simon Hammersley at Sale after the fullback quit.
Ealing, Worcester and French club Agen also remain in the race for the experienced speedsters signature.
Mike Brown of Harlequins celebrates with the trophy on his final day as a Harlequin during the Gallagher Premiership Cup Final between Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins at Twickenham Stadium June 26, 2021 in London, England (Photo by Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#2. Luther Burrell
- Age: 32
- Position: Centre
- Caps: 15
32-year-old centre Burrell is also weighing up his options after he was released by Newcastle Falcons. There's no word currently on where he might end up.
Luther Burrell of Northampton Saints during the Gallagher Premiership Semi Final Rugby match between Exeter Chiefs and Northampton Saints at Sandy Park on May 25th 2019, Exeter, Devon. Photo: Cameron Geran/PPAUK
#3. Marland Yarde
- Age: 30
- Position: Winger
- Caps: 13
Despite his departure not being officially announced, Yarde’s player profile has been removed from Sale Sharks website
Sources in Australia have informed The Rugby Paper ‘that the former England flyer has signed up with an Aussie agent to look for opportunities to further his career.’
The 30-year-old, who won 13 caps for England between 2013 and 2017, hasn’t played for his current club Sale Sharks since January 7, when he played 62 minutes of the defeat at the hands of Bristol Bears.
He made nine appearances for the Sharks, scoring two tries this season and also had a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a shoulder injury.
#4. Danny Cipriani
- Age: 34
- Position: Fly-half
- Caps: 16
The 34-year-old announced earlier this year that he intends to move abroad after his only season at the Rec but could yet extend his playing career in the United States, France or Japan.
Despite the Dallas jackals being the early favourites to land the 16-cap fly-half, that move has since stalled according to The Rugby Paper.
They report that Cipriani ‘is waiting on an offer from Japan before he decides on what is likely to be the last move of his career.’
Danny Cipriani of Bath Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bath Rugby and Bristol Bears at the Recreation Ground on 5 March 2022. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
