Sharks skipper to set sail for Toulon
Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:37
Sale Sharks club captain Dean Schofield will leave the club at the end of the current season to join French club Toulon on a two-year deal.
Schofield made his Sharks' debut in 2001 and has also played for England twice.
Commenting on his decision to leave the club, the powerful second row said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club and would like to thank coaches Jim Mallinder, Steve Diamond, Philippe Saint-André and Kingsley Jones for all their help and guidance over the years and for their faith in me, and all the players and staff at the club with whom I have had the pleasure of working.
"I have just turned 31 years of age, and the opportunity to join Toulon gives me a chance to play in the French Top 14. I have made so many friends whilst playing for Sale Sharks and am sure that, in years to come, I will be back sat in the stands watching the team play."
Looking ahead to the rest of the 2009/10 season, he added: "I may have signed for Toulon, but there is a lot of rugby to be played this season, and I am looking to finish my Sale Sharks career winning as many games as possible."
Director of Rugby Kingsley Jones said: "Dean Schofield has given Sale Sharks excellent service over the years and I would like to thank him for his 100% contribution both on and off the field. He has been a model professional. Dean has decided he wants to play in France, and we wish him well."
Schofield will team up with former Sale boss Phillipe Saint-Andre and captain Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe at Toulon. Both the coach and the player departed for France at the end of last season and have been enjoying some good success across the channel.
Contact Us | Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Advertising
