SALE Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond believes TJ Ioane will make an impact for the AJ Bell Stadium side after catching the eye at the Rugby World Cup.

The flanker played for Samoa in their 46-6 defeat to Samoa at the weekend and Diamond hopes he can boost their teams on his return.

Speaking on the club's website, he said: "I thought he was outstanding. He needed to settle in to life at the Sharks, but he's showing his true ability at the World Cup.

"He'll be like a new player when he arrives. We've got a good back row and if he continues performing like this, it will be hard to leave him out."

The Sharks take on Newcastle Falcons in the Kings of the North tournament on tomorrow night at home and the team could be boosted by Danny Cipriani coming into the equation.

Diamond said: "Danny is back and will be ready to be picked on Friday night. He'll be involved straight away.

"I think what Paul Deacon has introduced has been instrumental to all the players, not just the half backs, he's (Danny) very good at what we want to do.

"We'll hopefully put into practice the good work the lads have been doing on the training field

"This game will continue getting the lads fit ahead of the Aviva Premiership opener against Saracens."

Meanwhile, the Sharks have signed exciting winger Nev Edwards on a one-year contract after he impressed in the Kings of the North games.

The 27-year-old winger has formerly played for Rosslyn Park, Bedford and London Irish.

He rejected interest from two other Premiership clubs to sign up for the Sharks on Wednesday.

Diamond said: “Nev has spent the summer with us and has worked hard during our pre season build up.

“Due to an injury to Tom Brady and the unavailability of Phil MacKenzie I gave Nev a start at Newcastle in the Kings of the North competition and he scored an outstanding try.

“He also showed his pace in the home game against Leicester Tigers. He is a determined young man and will be pushing for a place in the team.”

Edwards is hoping to fulfil his potential by starring for the Sharks this season.

He said: “I am delighted to have signed a deal with the club. I spent time in the Academy at London Irish and maybe it wasn’t my time.

“So, I am grateful to Steve Diamond for giving me this opportunity and am fully focussed on doing my best for the club.”