SALE AXE NO GREAT SURPRISE

THERE is no "animosity" after his Sale exit, insists Paul Deacon.

- by DAVE CRAVEN

Initially joining the Premiership club in 2015 as attack and kicking coach, he had been head coach since Steve Diamond quit in December 2020.

But his departure was confirmed after their recent semi-final loss against Leicester.

Deacon, though, is adamant the squad he has left behind can eventually be crowned champions.