Sale Sharks boss forgives Byron McGuigan for missing chances after birth of his son

Byron McGuigan has scored two tries this season after joining from Exeter in the summer

Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond forgave utility back Byron McGuigan for squandering two try-scoring opportunities at Bristol, after his wife game birth the night before.

The 27-year-old former Scotland Sevens international could have secured a bonus point for his side if he had added those two scores in the first-half of their 31-13 win,.

McGuigan, though, who was with his partner for the birth, did cross out wide in the second half, as well as adding two conversions in the five-try win.

"Byron's wife had a baby on Saturday night at eight o'clock," said Diamond.

"So he could easily have done what most modern players do and not play but he opted to play so we will forgive him for that [dropping the ball].

"I don't expect bonus points in this competition. If you get them, it is a bonus. We took a couple of head knocks early doors but from this Monday, we are picking from a full-strength squad with everyone back from injury."

Haley's X-factor

Sale boss Diamond also offered special praise for full-back Mike Haley, who was one of five different try scorers at Ashton Gate.

After missing the start of the season with a shoulder injury suffered playing for England Saxons in the summer, the 22-year-old has been called into the senior squad for the Autumn internationals.

Mike Haley would win his first cap if he featured for England

"Mike has the X-factor - he is good under the high ball and is a very illusive runner," said Diamond.

"He is ungainly looking now and again but he breaks tackles and is difficult to bring down.

"Eddie (Jones) has brought him into the 33-man squad to have a look at him at the highest level so I am sure Mike won't let anyone down if he gets a chance."

Meanwhile, Sharks prop Eifion Lewis-Roberts will have the potential serious knee injury suffered against Bristol assessed this week.