Toulon to sign up Schofield

Heading to France: Dean Schofield

Sale club captain Dean Schofield is to leave the club at the end of the current season and will join French club Toulon on a two-year deal.

Lock forward Schofield made his debut for the Sharks back in 2001 and has also played for England on two occasions.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club and would like to thank coaches Jim Mallinder, Steve Diamond, Philippe Saint-Andre 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," said the forward.

"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.

"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."

Meanwhile, Director of Rugby Kingsley Jones added his gratitude for the work put in by Schofield over his long tenure at first Heywood Road and then Edgeley Park.

"Dean Schofield has given Sale Sharks excellent service over the years and I would like to thank him for his 100 per cent contribution both on and off the field," said the Welshman.

"He has been a model professional. Dean has decided he wants to play in France, and we wish him well."