International ambition.

Sale Sharks have confirmed that Will Addison will leave the club in the summer to embark upon a new challenge with Ulster.

The utility back, who can play on the wing, in the centre, or at fullback, has spent almost 10 years with the the Aviva Premiership club.

He has been in regular discussion with director of rugby Steve Diamond about an option he had in his contract to pursue his career in Ireland, with the 25-year-old having Irish qualification through his family.

Following those talks, Will has decided that he will stand a better chance of achieving his ambition of playing international rugby by moving to to Ireland.

A product of the Sale Academy, the former England Under-20s star made his first-team debut for the Sharks in 2011 and has gone to make more than 100 appearances for the club, scoring over 150 points, and he was appointed Club Captain for the 2017/18 campaign.

Commenting on the news, Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond said:

“It has been a pleasure to work with Will. He has captained the side this season and the enthusiasm and desire he brings will be missed.

“We all wish him well in his desire to play international rugby.”

He joins teammate Mike Haley, who is also moving to Ireland next season with Munster, in a bid to play international rugby.