Robinson was warned for using 'inappropriate language'

Northampton scrum-half Mark Robinson has issued an apology for the verbal tirade that earned him a written warning from the Rugby Football Union.

The former All Black, 30, was found to have used "inappropriate language" towards Bath's Andy Higgins but was cleared of making racist remarks.

"I apologise for any aspersions that have been cast on myself and the good name of this great club," he said.

Saints have already expressed their dismay at Robinson's behaviour.

"We are not surprised that our name has been cleared," said Saints chief executive Allan Robson.

"But we were disappointed with Mark Robinson's verbal outburst.

The players, coaching and commercial staff and supporters mean everything to me Mark Robinson

"Mark has been reminded that although rugby is an intense, emotional game, Saints are fortunate to have a large following of ladies and children who do not wish to hear expletives.

"To his credit, Mark acknowledged this and apologises to anyone who came within earshot.

"Now all of us at Saints just want to get on with preparing for Saturday's match against Gloucester."

Match referee Wayne Barnes stopped play in the 57th minute of Northampton's 33-18 victory at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday after complaints from four Bath supporters and one Northampton fan during the match.

Higgins is tackled by David Quinlan during Saturday's game

An official report found "insufficient evidence" of racist abuse while Robinson strenuously denied making any racist comments.

And he has expressed his determination to put the incident behind him.

"I am a passionate rugby player and put my all into every game I play," he added.

"Sometimes that passion boils, but this is purely a symptom of my dedication to my role in the game.

"Northampton Saints are a truly great, traditional club which I thoroughly enjoy working for.

"The players, coaching and commercial staff and supporters mean everything to me and I vow to continue to honour the black, green and gold of the club jersey in the best way I can by playing the best rugby I can."

Robson meanwhile, reiterated Saints' position on the matter.

"Northampton takes any allegation of racial abuse very seriously and we have a zero tolerance policy in this respect," he said.

"The allegations came as a great shock to everyone at the club but if any good can come from a situation like this then this has made us reaffirm our position on the matter."