And Robinsons England colleague, back-row forward Chris Jones, has agreed a three-year deal in a major double coup for Sharks new rugby director Philippe Saint-Andre.

Sharks officials have not specified the length of 30-year-old Robinsons new contract, other than to describe it as long term.

Robinson joined Sale from Wigan in 2000, switching to the union code following an outstanding league career when he scored 184 tries in 302 games and also won Great Britain honours.

But his stint in the union game has proved just as spectacular, scoring Englands try during the World Cup final victory over Australia last November and starring for the Lions on their 2001 tour Down Under.

I am absolutely delighted to to have signed this deal, said Robinson.

Sale Sharks were the club who took a gamble on me four years ago when I left rugby league, and taught me the union game.

I feel that by agreeing to end my playing days at Sale Sharks, that I will be able to repay their faith in me.

I am also more convinced than ever that the dream of seeing Sale Sharks establish themselves as one of the best clubs in Europe is coming ever closer, and I am confident that during my time at the club I will win major honours in the club game to go with those that I have won with England.

Robinson, who has started at full-back, wing and centre for England during a 33-cap Test career, scoring 19 tries, is currently with the Sharks on a pre-season trip to France.

Jones, meanwhile, was discovered by the clubs Academy system, and made his first team debut in 2002.

But he quickly captured the attention of England boss Sir Clive Woodward, and made a try-scoring debut against Italy in Rome during last seasons RBS 6 Nations Championship.

I am delighted to have signed a three-year deal with the Sharks, Jones said.

Philippe Saint-Andre and the coaches have really got the place buzzing, and the lads feel that we can deliver something special over the next few years with this squad.

Saint-Andre added: Signing up Jason and Chris on long-term deals is a major boost for the club.

Both players have important roles to play for Sale Sharks in the coming months and years, and both share our vision to bring silverware to Edgeley Park.