Sale Sharks sign scrum-half Joe Simpson on short-term deal

Sale Sharks have announced the signing of scrum-half Joe Simpson on a short-term contract ahead of the 2022/23 season.

Simpson started his professional rugby career with Wasps in 2006 after graduating through their academy and has racked up close to 250 appearances for the club.

The 34-year-old made a switch to Gloucester in 2019 and recently was involved in loan stints with Saracens and Bath Rugby. He also had a England cap to his name and also had represented Team GB in the sevens format.

Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson believes Simpson will provide cover to the squad with Raffi Quirke and Will Cliff sidelined with injuries.

“We felt that we were short of a bit of experience in the scrum-half position and Joe brings that in abundance," said Sanderson to the club's official website.

"He’s a proven performer who’s played at the very highest level for the past decade and more and we’re sure he will be a brilliant addition to what is a very young squad.

“Everyone who has worked with Joe speaks really highly of him in terms of his leadership off the field so we’re really excited to see what he can do here.

"Joe’s experience will be invaluable for our young players like Raffi, Gus Warr and Nye Thomas.”