Robinson to quit internationals Robinson will be missed - Davies Photos from Robinson's career

The Sharks skipper has quit Test rugby to spend more time with his family.

"Fair play to Jason for making this decision because he is still at his best. You must respect him for that," said Frenchman Saint-Andre.

"It's a big loss for the international game, 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."

Saint-Andre added: "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."

England are rebuilding and Jason just does not fit the needs of the new style From VH Have your say on Scrum V

Robinson stepped down after winning 39 caps and also leading England six times last season.

England coach Andy Robinson hailed the winger's "huge contribution" to the national side.

"Jason touched hearts with the way he played and that goes for the players and coaches as well as the spectators," he said.

"He set England alight on the training pitch as well as in the games."

He's an outstanding role model and an outstanding player RFU chief executive Francis Baron

RFU president LeRoy Angel said: "Jason is one of England's all-time greats, a fantastic rugby player and a wonderful man.

"The international game will miss him because he brought character and substance to whatever he did on the pitch.

"He's an inspirational player and he lit up the game whenever he had the ball in his hands as part of a great England team."

RFU chief executive Francis Baron said: "It's a great disappointment that Jason's decided to step down although we fully understand his reasons.

"He's an outstanding role model and an outstanding player and England are going to miss him."