Steve Diamond demands Sale Sharks keep entertaining

Diamond described prop Henry Thomas as 'outstanding' against Northampton

Sale director of sport Steve Diamond has promised to continue playing an expansive brand of rugby following their strong start to the season.

The Sharks have won their last three games, scoring eight tries, in their best run of form since 2009.

"Look at the top rugby league clubs: St Helens, Warrington and Wigan.

"They are [watched by] full houses because they play an entertaining brand of rugby and that's what we intend to do," Diamond told BBC Radio Manchester.

The 42-year-old was speaking following the 29-21 defeat of Northampton, where second-half tries from Mark Easter, Dwayne Peel and David Seymour turned around a match the Sharks were losing 12-6 at half-time.

"What we're trying to do is generate some enthusiasm and get the local people from Manchester behind us, but you've got to play rugby," he added.

"We need to get the place full, we need to get 10,000 people and we've got to play rugby like that."

Having spent the past couple of seasons fighting relegation Diamond's huge summer overhaul of playing and coaching staff appears to be reaping rewards.

The 2006 Premiership champions currently lie fourth in the table, without many recognised first-team players, they're relying on many younger players who have come through the club's academy.

"We're probably ahead of ourselves really with the youths that we have playing," Diamond stated.

"[Lee] Imiolek and Henry Thomas were outstanding against international props and at ages 19 and 20 it all bodes well for England.

"It looks as if we've got some great players coming through, but we'll keep a lid on it.

"If we can get through this period without our World Cup players and we're mid-table we'll be happy. That's what we're looking for."