Marland Yarde makes Sale Sharks switch

England international Marland Yarde has made a switch to the Aviva Premiership club Sale Sharks with immediate effect.

Yarde, who made his professional rugby debut with London Irish in 2010, joined Harlequins in 2014. However, his career with the Quins was marred when he missed three training sessions in October and was left out of the team's squad for the European Champions Cup clash against Wasps 10 days ago and also the recently concluded Aviva Premiership encounter against Worcester Warriors.

Harlequins rugby director John Kingston appreciated Yarde's contribution to the club and said the decision was taken in the best interest of the team.

"Marland is a top player and I have a great relationship with him," Kingston told the club's official website.

"We have enjoyed working together over the last three years, and I want to thank him for his contribution to the club and wish him well for the future.

"He's played really well for us this year, but the decision for Harlequins to allow Marland to speak to Sale was made because I felt it was in the best interest of the club.

"Every decision I make is with the intention of doing the right thing for Harlequins football club, and that's the way it will always be.

"I am building a positive environment and culture at Harlequins, on and off the field, which I believe will ultimately allow us to challenge for honours."

Meanwhile, Sale Sharks rugby director Steve Diamond welcomed Yarde's addition and believes he will be an asset to the club.

"Marland is a very exciting player and he will very much suit our attacking style of play.

"Though Marland has lots of experience, he is still very young with his best years ahead of him.

"I am sure that he will fit in perfectly with the rest of our squad, and we are all very excited about welcoming Marland to Sale Sharks.

"Marland fits our criteria of international-class recruitment, and our search for a world-class lock, prop and centre continues."

Yarde has scored eight tries from 13 Tests for England since his debut his debut in 2013 but was left out of Eddie Jones' autumn internationals squad.

For your latest betting news and deals please visit Betfred.