Sale director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre has welcomed Jason Robinson’s retirement from international rugby.
England are preparing for life without one of the game’s deadliest finishers following Robinson’s announcement he is to retire from Test rugby to spend more time with his family.
It brings down the curtain on a glittering England career spanning 39 caps and 22 Test tries and which includes World Cup glory, Grand Slam success and the captaincy among its highlights.
But England’s loss is Sale’s gain and Saint-Andre is delighted Robinson will now be available for club duty throughout the entire season.
"Jason is our leader and captain. Fair play to Jason for making this decision because he is still at his best," said the Frenchman.
"He wanted to stop international rugby because of his family. He has five children and has being playing professional rugby for a long, long time. You must respect his decision.
"It’s a big loss for the international game because I think he would be fit for the next World Cup.
"But it’s a bonus for Sale because he won’t be away all the time. It’s great he will be available all season.
"Fans will thank Jason for what he did with England and I hope he is with Sale for the next two or three years. He’s a good lad, a superb man and he is still very competitive."
Robinson’s presence at Edgeley Park during international weekends will be a major bonus for Sale who contribute heavily to the squads of England, France and Scotland.
