FORD QUITS TIGERS
ENGLAND FLY-HALF WILL MOVE TO SALE SHARKS NEXT SEASON
GEORGE Ford’s rumoured departure from Leicester Tigers this summer was confirmed yesterday, writes Bobby Bridge.
The 28-year-old fly-half has signed for Sale Sharks ahead of the 2022/23 season, bringing to an end his second spell with Tigers either side of four years at Bath.
The news was revealed in an official statement by Leicester Tigers, followed by Sale Sharks confirming that Ford will be teaming up with former team-mate Manu Tuilagi at the AJ
Bell Stadium next season.
Leicester Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick said: “George has made a personal decision, which he informed us of earlier this week, which means this will be his final season in Leicester.
“I have had the pleasure of working with him for a number of years, with England and now here at Tigers, and I am grateful to have had that privilege.
“We are fortunate to have the best following in rugby, who have been able to enjoy watching George represent their club for many years and I am sure they will echo me in thanking him for his contribution to Tigers.
“There are still a lot of games to be played in this season and George is fully committed to finishing his time at Leicester Tigers in front of big crowds at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, which our supporters can be proud of, and to share in success with them.”
Ford made his senior debut in 2009, while still a member of the Tigers Academy, and made 40 senior appearances for the club before leaving to join Bath Rugby in 2013. He returned to Leicester in 2017 and has played 73 games during the past four seasons, to total 113 appearances for the club to date.
Ford said: “It has been the most difficult decision of my career. “I am proud and grateful to represent this great club at Leicester and I will give my all for the rest of my time at Tigers.”
Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson confirmed that Oldham-born Ford’s roots in the area were a key factor in him switching clubs.
Sanderson said: “He’s a northerner and his heart is very much in this area. He’s been away for some years now but he’s coming back to his spiritual home.”