George Merrick has left Newcastle with 'immediate effect'

Former England U20s star George Merrick has left Newcastle Falcons with 'immediate effect' - the club have confirmed this evening.

The mid-season exit will allow the lock-forward to join a French club, which Newcastle did not name in the statement.

The 30-year-old has made 13 appearances since joining from Worcester Warriors in the summer of 2021, and leaves with "the thanks and best wishes of the club".

The 6 foot 7 second-row played more than 50 times for Harlequins before leaving for French giants Clermont in 2019, before spending a season with Worcester.

“George has been offered an exciting playing opportunity over in France and we wish him all the best for his move," said Newcastle Falcons head coach Dave Walder. “He has been a positive presence around our squad during his time here, and on behalf of the entire coaching team I’d like to thank him for his contribution.”

Merrick said: “I’ve loved my time in Newcastle with a great bunch of boys, and I'm looking forward now to this new challenge.”

Merrick played just one game for Newcastle since joining last year.