Shark Lund urges caution

By Ben Blackmore  

Shark Lund urges caution

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England and Sale flanker Magnus Lund admits the Premiership champions are taking a cautious approach into the new season, as they look to defend their crown.

The 23-year-old made a big impact last year, earning recognition at international level for his high-energy performances in the loose.

Lund was a big reason for the consistent match-winning displays of fly-half Charlie Hodgson, who was afforded the time to dictate play in a manner that few others can.

However, the Sale forward is concerned they will face a different type of challenge this season, and he admits the Sharks are venturing into the unknown.

"It's going to be a little bit strange for us," Lund said. "It was a massive thing to have won the league last year and we were all really chuffed.

"We'll be going into unknown waters starting the season as champions. All the teams will be up for it when they play us.

"Lots of people who have won it in the past have said it is harder to win it a second time and keep on going with the same desire to win it again.

"It's going to be a massive ask for us but we have ambitious players at the club and the club is also ambitious in terms of what they want to achieve.

"I don't think we necessarily changed things last year," he continued. "I think we just got a few different players in, and players who were already there got more experience and we grew as a team.

"We've got a forward pack now with not just eight players but 16, who are capable of stepping in and making a difference. Having the back-up there really makes a difference.

"I'm sure the backs will be happy to see us take the heat off them! We have got some quality backs out there. We are happy to take all the flak and let them do their jobs."

Sale start their campaign against last season's losing finalists Leicester Tigers.