Hooker shown Northampton exit

Northampton have confirmed that they have terminated hooker Brett Sharman's contract at the club.

The 25-year-old has been under investigation for the last few weeks after posting a racist tweet following Mo Farah's win in the 5,000m at the Olympics. However, the Saints have rejected any claims that the forward has been told to leave the club due to the incident and insist his dismissal is solely down to a long standing knee injury that has ruled him out of action since January. Coach Jim Mallinder has expressed regret about the talented star's exit and has wished Sharman the best of luck for the future. "It is always a shame when someone's contract comes to an end in these circumstances," Mallinder said. "Brett has contributed a lot to the squad in his time at Franklin's Gardens, and we wish him all the best for the future."