Charnley leaves Union and returns to League

Josh Charnley has left Sale Sharks to move back to rugby league and join Warrington Wolves.

The winger has signed for the Super League club until November 2020, having left Wigan Warriors following their Grand Final success to switch codes in 2016.

Charnley made 32 appearances for Sale, scoring four tries, but the Sharks have allowed him to transfer back to league following his failure to secure regular game time.

“I like this club. It’s a good club to be at, there’s a good culture here and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the lads and pushing for that top-four spot,” Charnley told Warrington’s official website.

“There wasn’t much persuasion needed. I know a few boys here who speak highly of this club so it wasn’t a tough decision to put pen to paper.

“I’ve always liked playing at this stadium, it’s one of my favourites. Hopefully I’ll fit straight in with the boys. I’ve been out of the game 17 months.

“I’ll be looking to bring some enthusiasm to the boys and bring a bit of pace to the team. I’ll try and be a bit physical and try and give the lads a lift.”

?Looking good in the primrose and blue @Joshuacharnley!

?Stay tuned to our social channels this evening for an exclusive interview with our new signing! pic.twitter.com/TMqP2jogG6

— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) March 19, 2018

Charnley made the cross-code switch from League to Union and joined the Sharks in late 2016 after a hugely successful six year spell with Wigan Warriors for whom he played more than 170 times, winning two Super League titles and two Challenge Cup medals.

He went on to make 32 appearances for the Sharks and impressed everyone with his professionalism and commitment during his time with the club.

Commenting on the news, Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond said: “Josh has been a pleasure to work with and he has been a great servant for Sale.

“However, we have a highly competitive squad here at Sale and Josh’s desire was to play every week and we couldn’t guarantee him that.

“Given how important his desire to play every week was to Josh and to the club we thought that this opportunity was right for both parties.

“Everyone here at Sale wishes Josh well on his move to Warrington.”

Warrington are fifth in Super League with three wins from seven games.