Stade Francais fly-half Zack Henry to join Newcastle Red Bulls

Stade Francais fly-half Zack Henry will bring his experience and game management to Newcastle Red Bulls when he joins in the summer.

The Englishman arrives on a one-year deal after a successful spell in France, returning to the Gallagher PREM five years after leaving Leicester Tigers.

Henry, 31, has spent the bulk of his professional career across the Channel, with the former Bath University student playing for Rouen and Nevers before his year at Leicester.

Playing 26 times for the Tigers including an EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final, Henry returned to France to star for Pau before earning his move to Stade Francais, for whom he is closing in on 50 appearances.

Relishing the prospect of a second crack at the Gallagher PREM following his summer move to Tyneside, he said: “I’m really looking forward to coming back.

“I have spent nine years of my professional career in France and my only time in the PREM was during Covid, so I’m excited about coming home and having the full experience.

“I’m also really excited by what Newcastle are building. I’ve had some inspiring conversations with the club and I can’t wait to be part of such an ambitious project.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time in France and am eternally grateful for how it’s shaped me, both on and off the field. Hopefully I can bring some of that experience to the Red Bulls next season.”

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Zack is a very accomplished fly-half who knows his way round the field and has played at a high level for a number of years now.

“He has the attacking skill set to help get our back line firing, as well as a strong kicking game.

“He will get the best out of the players around him, and we look forward to seeing his positive contribution towards developing our evolving game plan.”

ZACK HENRY BIOG

Position: Fly-half

Born: 1/10/1994

Height: 1.83m (6 foot)

Weight: 90kg (14 stone 2)