American Eagle lands at Edgeley Park

The Sale Sharks have confirmed the signing of American Eagles scrumhalf Mike Petri.

The 25-year-old United States No.9 was one of the star performers, having scored a try, in the Eagles' 39-22 Churchill Cup win over Russia earlier this month.

Petri made his debut for the Eagles against South Africa at Montpellier in the 2007 World Cup, and has represented his country on 15 occasions.

Last June in Chicago he captained his country against Wales, in direct opposition to new club colleague Dwayne Peel.

Petri was born in Brooklyn and was captain of his club side, New York Athletic Club. Educated at Xavier High School and Penn State University, Petri is 1.78m tall, and weighs 83kg.

Sale Sharks head coach Mike Brewer said the Eagles player will add value in a key position.

"As we saw in the recent Churchill Cup, Mike is a good organiser who bosses his forwards," Brewer said.

"He’s a strong player with the ball.

"This will be his first full-time contract, training in a fully professional environment.

"He will encounter new daily challenges, and I'm certain they will contribute to a significant improvement in his game."