Former Castleford Tigers winger Denny Solomona has declared himself available for the England Rugby Union team after completing his three-year residency period.
Having controversially switched codes to join Sale in December, the 23-year-old has scored 11 tries in 11 appearances for the Sharks with some reports suggesting he could play for the British Lions.
Castleford are currently seeking £500,000 in compensation for Solomona after he walked out on his contract with the club at the end of the 2016 Super League season.
A court case is currently ongoing involving both clubs and agent Andy Clark, but Solomona has been able to put that behind him to score nine tries in eight Premiership matches.
During his time in league, Solomona represented Samoa but is also eligible to play for New Zealand, so his decision to choose England in the 15-man game has surprised some.
“Obviously I’m enjoying playing here. I’ve been here for three years and it’s the choice (to play for England) I want to make,” Solomona told BBC Sport.
“I just want to focus on what I need to work on and that’s here at Sale. If England comes this summer, it comes, if it doesn’t, it doesn’t.”
“There is always next year or the year after, but at the moment I’m trying to enhance my skills as a rugby union player.”
When quizzed about the situation involving his former club Castleford, Solomona said he can understand “100%. Everyone has their frustrations and problems but life moves on.
“We’re months out from it now, I’ve moved on and I’m sure they’ll move on too.”
