THE MAN expected to become one of the highest paid players in world rugby when he joins Bristol next summer insists he has no concerns about giving up the chance for more New Zealand caps to play in England, writes Nick Purewal.

Utility back Charles Piutau said it was an ‘easy decision’ to put supporting his family before a chance to chase further All Blacks honours.

Piutau, currently with Irish province Ulster, will become one of the world’s highest earners when he joins Bristol next summer on an breath-taking salary reported to be one million pounds a season.

The 17-times capped All Black Piutau gave up the chance to play in the Rugby World Cup 2015 by agreeing to join Ulster in 2016.

The 25-year-old met with NZRU bosses over a possible move back to Super Rugby in 2017, but is now looking forward instead to linking back up with his former Auckland Blues coach Pat Lam at ambitious Bristol next term.

“First maybe there was an option to go back to New Zealand,” Piutau said.

“After catching up with people in the union, it became clear that I didn’t want to go back.

“So after that it was an easy option for me, to stay in the north.

“Then I started talking to a few clubs, and I found Bristol was a perfect fit for me.

“I was born and brought up in New Zealand, I love the All Blacks jersey and I love what it stands for.

“But when it comes to a place when you can provide for your family and there’s a better opportunity, to me it was an easy decision. I’ll always choose my family over anything else.

“I’m so thankful for everything that happened in New Zealand, but as well as wanting to provide for my family, I also wanted to experience this side of the world.

“Ulster have been amazing with me, and I’ve really enjoyed my time here playing for the club and in the city of Belfast.

“So I want to make the most of everything in my final year here.”

Bristol Sport, of which Bristol Rugby are part of alongside Bristol City FC and Bristol Flyers basketball team, are backed by billionaire Steve Lansdown.