Former Ireland international Will Addison lands coaching role 

Former Ireland international Will Addison will continue to play next season, as player-coach of semi-professional outfit Sale FC.

Addison, 32, was released by Sale Sharks when his contract expired last month, but has found a new role close to home at the Gallagher Prem club’s partner club.

The versatile back made over 100 appearances for the Sharks across two spells, having come through the club’s academy.

In June 2018, he left Manchester to move to Ulster and pursue his dream of playing international rugby for Ireland.

Addison achieved his goal, debuting against Italy in November 2018. But a series of serious injuries restricted him to just five caps, the last won in July 2021 vs the USA, and he returned to the Sharks last summer.

“I’m really excited to be joining such a brilliant club and have the opportunity to cut my teeth as a young coach.” said Addison. “I am sure that coaching and playing alongside plenty of my former teammates will make the experience even more enjoyable”.

Addison will focus on developing the club’s young players and coach the first team backs at Sale FC.

Sale FC play in the third tier of English club rugby, in National League One, and have strong ties with the Sharks. Former Sharks, Fergus Mulchrone and Tom Brady, play for the team – with Brady captaining the side last season – and Neil Briggs coaches at both clubs.

“We’re absolutely delighted to bring in someone of Will’s calibre,” said Director of Rugby Jonathan Keep. “His playing pedigree speaks for itself, but just as importantly, he’s a natural mentor and will be a huge influence on our young group.”