England international Joe Marchant has made his return to the Premiership, joining Sale Sharks after a three-year stint with French club Stade Français. The 30-year-old centre has openly stated his desire to represent England once more, aiming to build on his 28 caps.
Marchant believes his time in Paris significantly enhanced his communication skills, a development he attributes to overcoming the language barrier. He also spent part of 2020 with the Blues in Auckland, gaining experience in both French and New Zealand rugby environments.
Sale's director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, has reportedly been impressed by Marchant's qualities. Marchant has maintained regular contact with England coach Steve Borthwick since the 2023 World Cup, where he was a key player in the team that reached the semi-finals.
Marchant also revealed that former Newcastle and England football captain Alan Shearer became his father-in-law over the summer, leading to playful expectations about his football skills among his new teammates.