JOE Ford said focus has already returned for Sale Sharks after a second European Rugby Challenge Cup victory over Castres last weekend.

Ford kicked three penalties and one conversion in the 31-10 triumph at the AJ Bell Stadium in a fine display.

But he says that is already in the past as Sharks look to their Aviva Premiership game against Exeter Chiefs on Saturday.

The last time Sharks visited Sandy Park, they fell to a 44-16c defeat in the final match last season.

And Ford is aware of the threat the second-placed Chiefs pose.

He told the club's website: "Exeter are probably the best attacking side in the Premiership so even though our defence has been strong over the last two weeks we will be tested a lot more at Sandy Park.

"We will have to go down there and be ready for what they will throw at us, so hopefully we can cause them some problems."

After the trip to Devon. the Sharks' first game of the new year is at home against Wasps on Saturday week.

Ford thinks it will be a difficult start to the year but feels Sale can carry on their impressive home form with another win.

He added: "Wasps are on fire at the minute.

"It is a huge game at home to start off the year.

"We haven't lost any games at home and we want to continue that.

"We need to go and put a performance together against Exeter then we can look forward to Wasps."

Sharks are certainly in confident mood after their back-to-back wins against Castres.

Saturday's triumph came after second-half tries from Viliami Fihaki, Neil Briggs and Johnny Leota making it a comfortable margin of victory.

It was a display that naturally pleased Ford.

He said: "It was a really good win.

"We controlled the game well and put in a professional performance and we got it done.

"I am really happy with how I am playing at the moment, I am taking it one play at a time and I'll see where it gets me."

l Tickets for Sharks' crunch game against Wasps on January 2 (kick off 5.30pm) are on sale now. Call 08444 994994 or visit the website at salesharks.com