Club captain Callum Chick will return for Newcastle Falcons on Friday night when they host Sale Sharks in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

The England international has missed the Falcons’ first two games in the competition following an off-season shoulder operation, but will lead out the side as they aim to maintain their winning start.

Newcastle top their group after taking maximum points from their opening matches at Ampthill and at home to Bedford, with head coach Alex Codling set to name a strong line-up for Friday’s all-Premiership affair.

Central to that will be the returning Chick, with Codling explaining: “We’re delighted that Callum is back fit and available, and he will lead out the team on Friday.

“He’s been with the boys running the water on during our last two games, and he is a really important part of what we’re about.

“He has worked incredibly hard over the past few months and been keen to stay involved during that time, in whatever way he could.

“I’m delighted to have him back involved from a playing perspective, and as well as adding to the team I know he’ll take huge pride in captaining the group.”

Sale opened their Premiership Rugby Cup encounter with an emphatic home win over Bedford, but fell narrowly to a strong Leicester Tigers side last weekend.

“Sale are a quality team who got to the Premiership final last season, and Friday will see a step up in intensity,” said Codling.

“It’s a big test for us, but one that the boys are very much looking forward to.”

Tickets for Friday’s game are priced just £15 for adults and £7 for under-18s by clicking here.

Stadium parking is available for £10 by clicking here.

Season ticket and season parking pass holders who booked before July 18 are reminded that this game IS included in their 2023-24 package.