Northampton Saints have confirmed that South African hooker Brett Sharman has been released by the club.

The 25-year-old recently landed himself in hot water with a tweet about Olympic 5,000m and 10,000m gold medallist Mo Farah.

Sharman faced disciplinary action for the controversial comment, but the club announced on their website that he was released because of a knee injury.

"It is always a shame when someone's contract comes to an end in these circumstances," said director of rugby Jim Mallinder.

"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."

Sharman joined Northampton from South African side Blue Bulls in 2009.