New Newcastle signing Raffi Quirke backed to reignite England career

The Red Bulls have officially announced one of the worst-kept secrets in rugby, that England international Raffi Quirke will be joining them from northern rivals Sale Sharks in the summer.

The 24-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Red Bulls, who are steadily building an impressive squad for next season, armed with cash from their takeover by the Austrian energy drinks giants.

Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy has heralded Quirke as ‘one of the most exciting talents in English rugby’, and has backed the scrum-half to add to the two caps he won nearly five years ago.

“Raffi is one of the most exciting talents in English rugby, and is approaching his peak years,” said McIlroy.

“He will help take our attack onto the next level with the way he plays the game and the experience he has built up, despite still being only 24.

“It’s another statement signing which reiterates how serious we are about taking this club to the next level, and he knows how important rugby is to the north of England.

“Having already had a taste of international rugby I am sure he will be hoping to showcase his talents to achieve further recognition, and he certainly has the ability to do that as part of an ambitious Newcastle squad.”

Meanwhile, Quirke is excited to take on new challenge, having spent his entire pro career at the Sharks, for whom he has played 80 games in seven seasons.

“Having been up to visit Newcastle and listen to their vision, I could only be massively excited about the new journey they are all on with Red Bull,” said Quirke, who played for England A last year.

“I want to be part of that new story, and I look forward to bringing my energy and attacking mindset to a club that deserves to be shaking up the old rugby order for the fans in the North East.

“I will be forever grateful to Alex Sanderson at Sale Sharks, as well as the club, the players and supporters there. It has been an amazing experience that has shaped me on and off the pitch.”