His prospects of featuring at the Millennium Stadium looked slim when he hobbled out of Sales Cup quarter-final against Bath.

But Robinson has been assured that no serious damage has been done to the muscle, and with careful nurturing and attention he could be back in action soon.

Fortunately there is no tear, just bruising, Robinson told www.salesharks.com.

I am confident I will be fit to play for Sale Sharks game against Northampton at Edgeley Park next Saturday, the week before the Six Nations commences.

The Sale skipper had cast a forlorn figure as he limped out of Edgeley Park, with his team having thrown away a 20-12 lead in the closing minutes of the thrilling quarter-final and his own position clouded in uncertainty.

Robinson has also been struggling with a flu virus, but his refreshingly positive outlook will bring welcome relief for England coach Andy Robinson, who had feared losing the services of the full-back.

Already coach Robinson has lost the services of a number of key players, most notable among them being World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson, but significantly the injured list also includes Mike Tindall, Will Greenwood, Stuart Abbott, Richard Hill and Martin Corry.