George Ford

Fly-half George Ford joined Sale Sharks on a long-term contract ahead of the 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership just weeks after helping Leicester Tigers to the Premiership title.

Oldham-born George began his professional career at Tigers, and in 2009 became the youngest rugby union player to make his professional debut in England, at just 16 years and 237 days.

After winning a Premiership title with Tigers in 2013, he moved to Bath, winning the Gilbert Golden Boot as the top-points scorer and winning LV= Young Player of the Year, before returning to Leicester for the 2018-19 season.

In total he made more than 80 appearances for the Tigers before making the switch the Sale Sharks and was the league’s leading points scorer in his final season with the club. He kicked 38 conversions and as many penalties while also slotting one drop goal to take his points tally to 193 and secure another Gilbert Golden Boot award.

George made his England debut in 2014 and has since gone on to win more than 80 caps. He played a key role as Eddie Jones’s men reached the World Cup final in 2019.

After announcing George’s signing, Sharks DoR Alex Sanderson described him as one of the world’s best fly-halves.

He added: “He’s a northerner and his heart is very much in this area. He’s been away for some years now but he’s coming back to his spiritual home. It’s a massive boost for the club and it’s a big indication of what we’re all about and where we’re trying to get to.”