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Barkley not for Sale?

Jenny Dixon
8/ 3/2006

ENGLAND star Olly Barkley is almost certain to stay at Bath according to Sale Sharks' director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre.

Twenty-four-year-old Barkley was rumoured to be eyeing a move to league leaders Sharks when his contract with Bath expires at the end of the season, but following talks with the player Saint-Andre believes Barkley is '90 per cent' certain to remain with Brian Ashton's side.

Saint-Andre explained: "I think Barkley was looking at his options. He was interested in Sale and I spoke with him but I think he is keen to stay in Bath."

Following the sudden departure of one of Sharks' summer signings, centre Epi Taione, following a 15-week ban for biting, and the possible exit of Robert Todd to America at the end of the season, the centre position is one that Saint-Andre is keen to bolster. Barkley, who can play at inside centre or flyhalf, would have been an ideal replacement, while playing regularly alongside Charlie Hodgson would have been a boost for England too.

Bath's head coach, Ashton, is keen to retain Barkley, who is currently out with a thumb injury, but remains uncertain of his player's plans.

Ashton told the Bath Chronicle: "I only know what's been said in the newspapers about the Sale thing.

"I know nothing more about it and we are just waiting for him to make his decision."

Sharks' coaches aren't having to look far for potential new signings this season, as top players are now approaching them.

Head coach Kingsley Jones explained: "A lot of players are interested in joining us and if a player of that [Barkley's] quality becomes available and shows an interest in joining us we'll obviously speak to them.

"We're flattered that when top players become available they are considering Sale."

But drafting in new signings to his already talent-packed squad is not top priority for Saint-Andre.

The former French captain explained: "We are more focussed on keeping our current players than signing other people. We've got a lot of young kids coming through the ranks, we'll try to use some of our under 21s."

The club are still in talks with Steve Hanley's agent. The winger, who debuted for Sale in 1998, has yet to sign a new contract with Sharks.