FOR SALE SHARKS

KIWI Glenn Ross has been appointed as Sale Sharks coach for next season.

The 45 year-old New Zealander, who coached Super 12 side Otago Highlanders and helped to groom his predecessor John Mitchell when thet were both at Waikato, will take up the appointment later this month.

More recently, he coached Irish provincial side Connacht and is no stranger to top class English rugby, having coached Northampton when former All Blacks skipper Wayne Shelford played a major role in restoring the fortunes of the newly-crowned European champions.

He was partly responsible for establishing the programme that saw the development of internationals Matt Dawson, Paul Grayson and Peter Walton.

Married with two children, Glenn is noted for his meticulous planning and his skill in man management. He moved into coaching after injury ended his career when he was 22.

Director of Rugby Adrian Hadley said, "Glenn has all the right credentials and I believe he will work well with our players and coaching staff."

Chief executive Graham Walker said, "We are delighted to have acquired the services of Glenn. He has an excellent track record and will bring the level of expertise we need to challenge for honours next season.

In addition to Wigan Warriors' Jason Robinson, Sale Sharks have been linked with Saint Helens' Samoan players Fereti Tuilagi and Apollo "The Terminator" Perelini.

They are both free agents when the rugby league season finishes and are free to switch codes, if they find the right deal.

However, Hadley is keeping his cards close to his chest, dismissing the reports as pure speculation.

Meanwhile, Alex Sanderson may have to make an emotional withdrawal from the England under 21 side who are travelling to play in the Sanzar U21 tournament in New Zealand later this month.

He had been picked to captain the team and he was looking forward to his final fling before he ceases to qualifiy for the under 21 side, but he has had a neck problem for some time now and desperately wishes to be fit for next season.

Alex visited a specialist this week and has pledged to act upon the doctor's advice.

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