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 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, whose side visit Newcastle in the revamped Powergen Cup on Sunday, is delighted Robinson will now be available 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.

"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.

His exit from the Test arena may also inject new life into a career which has become jaded over the last 12 months with the 31-year-old feeling the effects of 12 years uninterrupted rugby played across union and league.

The jet-heeled winger is looking forward to his reduced work-load and hinted he would be interested in extending his Sale contract if the next two seasons go according to plan.

"This will be the first time I have played club rugby by itself in 12 years and I am looking forward to it," he said.

"I think we have got a good side at Sale but there are a lot of things we need to achieve to be one of the top teams."

ALTRINCHAM Kersal picked up their second North One win in a row at the weekend by beating Chester 33-14. Andy Daldry kicked 28 points with second row Arthur Mate adding a try.

In North Two, Stockport continued their winning streak with a 30-13 win over Widnes.

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