Sinoti Sinoti leaves Newcastle Falcons

Having become a firm fans’ favourite during his seven years on Tyneside, Newcastle Falcons can confirm that Sinoti Sinoti is leaving the club with immediate effect for personal reasons.

The Samoan international has made 110 appearances since joining midway through the 2013-14 campaign, his side-stepping and power-packed contact skills making him a popular figure with the Falcons faithful.

The former Toulon man has dotted down 23 tries for the club, including the Premiership’s Try of the Season against Exeter Chiefs in 2017-18.

Director of rugby Dean Richards said: “It’s not hard to understand why Sinoti is so popular with our supporters, because he plays the game with a smile on his face and is always looking to be a positive attacking force.

“He has been part of some big moments for us during his seven years here, including our fourth-placed Premiership finish in 2018, two huge games at St James’ Park, Heineken Champions Cup wins over Toulon and Montpellier, being shortlisted twice for Premiership Players’ Player of the Season and being selected in the Premiership Team of the Season.

“It is obviously a shame to see a player of his ability move on for personal reasons so close to the start of the Gallagher Premiership season, but we thank him for everything he has done during his time here and wish him and his family all the best for whatever lies ahead.”

Sinoti said: “For almost eight years Newcastle has been my home, the Falcons have been my club and my team-mates have been my brothers.

“I have given everything I could as a player, and every time I put that jersey on it was done with nothing but pride and passion.

“Some people may love me as a player and some may not, but I hope that whether or not you like my style of play I have left a good impression as a person, and that people respect me as a man.

“I am grateful for my time here, I am grateful for the relationships I have built with supporters, staff, players and everyone at the club. I am nothing but grateful for it all.

“Sinoti, Tooning out!”