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Rugby Union

England centre Tait signs for Sharks

03/05/2008

Sale Sharks have announced the signing of Mathew Tait from Newcastle Falcons on a three-year contract which will start next season.

Newcastle let the England utility back leave as they felt the amount of time he was spending on international duty was having a detrimental effect on the side.

The Sharks wasted little time in signing the gifted 22-year-old and will hope that his acquisition will help them push for honours next season.

Sale director of rugby Philippe Saint Andre said: "This is fantastic news for the club. Mathew is a naturally gifted rugby player who can play at full back, wing and outside centre.

"Although he is only 22 years old, he has already won 23 caps for England and has still tremendous potential to develop further as a player."

Tait will now form part of another devastating-looking back line, linking up with fly-half Charlie Hodgson, former All Black Luke McAlister and England winger Mark Cueto.

Tait said he had enjoyed his time at Newcastle but was looking forward to a new challenge. He said: "I know some of the Sale Sharks players from the England squad and am looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad in pre-season training."

Sale are currently in the hunt for a playoff place to decide the Premiership champions and Tait's move to the Sharks is likely to provide him with a greater chance of silverware after the Falcons suffered another disappointing season.