Gaskell made his Sharks debut aged 18 against Cardiff Blues

Sale Sharks forward James Gaskell has signed a contract extension keeping him at the club until the summer of 2014.

The 20-year-old is a product of Sharks' academy and has made 39 appearances since his debut in 2008.

Gaskell said: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and believe the club is going in the right direction.

"I sat down with [executive director of sport] Steve Diamond soon after he was appointed. He told me about the club's vision and I want to play a part."

Gaskell became Sale's youngest ever captain when former head coach Mike Brewer handed him the role at the start of the season but he has since been replaced by England winger Mark Cueto.

Despite spending two months out with ankle ligament damage earlier in the season, Gaskell's form was rewarded with an England Saxons place in January, and he scored a try on his debut against Italy.

Diamond added: "James's agreement to extend his contract is so important to Sale Sharks, he is the type of player we want to build the future of the club around.

"He is a very talented individual with a great work ethic and is respected by everyone at the club.

"Alongside the extension agreed by Henry Thomas and others to be revealed soon we have a fantastic core of young, English qualified and hungry players at the club. They will play an integral part in bringing success to Sale Sharks."

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