How Will power will add Shark bite for Ulster:
ULSTER’S eye-catching new signing Will Addison is coming to the province to not only revive their fortunes but to also boost his international hopes.
The talented England-born centre is Irish-qualified through a strong Ulster link as his mother hails from Enniskillen, and his signing has been welcomed by national coach Joe Schmidt.
The 25-year-old Addison has played over 100 times for Aviva Premiership side Sale Sharks and has signed on at Ulster for two years.
The Cumbria native, who is captain at Sale this season, can also tog out at wing or full-back and this versatility, allied to his useful goal-kicking skills, certainly make him an attractive prospect for Ulster.
Addison’s ambition to play for Ireland is backed up by having previously turned out for England at U20 level.
His leadership skills at Sale, who are currently seventh in the Premiership though not involved in European knockout rugby, will also be a valuable asset as Ulster seek to rebuild.
As well as citing his links to Ulster and international ambitions as being part of the attraction to quit England, Addison also name-checked Ulster assistant coach Dwayne Peel — the pair played together at Sale — as being another factor.
“This is a great opportunity for me to develop as a player and to experience a new environment,” said Addison.
“I do have ambitions to play at international level but, for me, the immediate priority is to work hard and enjoy my rugby at Ulster.
“My mum is from Enniskillen and I think Ulster will be a great fit.
“It’s clear Ulster are starting with a clean slate from next season and it sounds like the ideal time to come on board.
“Another factor was that I played with Dwayne Peel when he was at Sale and he’s still a very good friend of mine.”
Addison has been with Sale for nearly a decade and graduated to the senior team from the club’s academy system.
He made his first-team debut in 2011 and has played 112 times for the club and scored 158 points.
Commenting on the new signing, Ulster Operations Director Bryn Cunningham said: “Will is a really exciting capture for us.”
While citing his leadership qualities, Cunningham also lauded Addison for his versatility as a player as both a place-kicker and someone able to fill a number of positions.
“Will clearly has the desire and potential to play international rugby and that was undoubtedly a key driver in his decision-making process. We will have some big changes in our squad composition for next season,” Cunningham interestingly added.
“The focus for us over the next few years will be improving the competitiveness of the squad.”
With Charles Piutau leaving Ulster and Darren Cave and Jared Payne out of contract at the end of this season, Addison looks like a useful piece of business as the province begin restructuring for the future.
Ulster have already signed Ireland international forwards Jordi Murphy and Marty Moore for next season.