Falcons to lose trio of stars
Sat, 03 May 2008 10:42
England backline stars Toby Flood and Mathew Tait - as well as flank Ben Woods - will all leave Newcastle Falcons at the end of the current season.
Club Chairman Dave Thompson said: "Having four of our first-choice backline away with England for so long this year, and the fact that they would miss half of our league games next season, has been a major consideration in the decision to allow both Toby and Mathew to move.
"The impact of four of our backline going out en-masse and then returning at various stages of the season has caused us certain difficulties as we look to get this team to where it needs to be, and we felt that the situation had to be addressed for the long-term good of the club.
"Whilst we remain committed supporters of England and of English rugby the interests of Newcastle Falcons remain our foremost concern, and it is with that in mind that we have agreed to these changes.
"All three players still had a year left to run on their contracts, and the club will receive transfer fees for both Toby and Mathew.
"We are currently in advanced negotiations with two Super 14 players, and hope to have some positive news to report on that front in the near future.
"I would like to thank Toby, Ben and Mathew for their contribution during their time at Kingston Park, and wish them well for the future at their respective new clubs."
