Vainikolo has followed the trail blazed by the now retired Robinson, building a huge reputation in rugby league before breaking into the national squad after converting to the 15-man game.

Robinson was a huge success after his change of code and became feared as one of the most deadly runners in world rugby.

He feels Vainikolo - known as the 'Volcano' - can make an equally stunning impact, and has backed him to perhaps even better his achievements in the Red Rose shirt.

"Lesley is fast, he has raw power and he's a try machine," Robinson told the Mail on Sunday ahead of the RBS 6 Nations which begins next week.

"I wouldn't be at all surprised if he becomes a huge global star in international rugby, and a massive fans' favourite with England.

"Give him a 10-metre run and you've got little chance. If you're ready to take a big hit from him he'll step you, and if you're light-footed preparing for the step, he'll dip his shoulder and run straight through you.

"You just don't know what he's going to do until it's too late.

"It gives the opposition a massive problem, because you can't afford not to heavily police Les in a game, but in doing so you leave yourself wide open elsewhere."