Robinson tempted out of retirement

Rugby World Cup-winner Jason Robinson is coming out of retirement, having chosen to play for National League Fylde next season.

The Leeds-born winger, who will be 36 later this month, played rugby league for club sides Hunslet and Wigan and internationally for both England and Great Britain before switching codes. It means a reunion with former England manager Brian Ashton, who returned to Fylde as a coaching consultant last month.

Ashton said: "It is a remarkably fortunate coincidence for me to be returning to help out my old club Fylde as Jason arrives to play. I have had the privilege of working with Jason and know that his stature, ability and qualities as a player and a person will benefit all who come into contact with him, both on and off the field."

Robinson had spells with Bath and Sale and was a part of England's 2003 World Cup-winning team, appearing in more than 50 rugby union internationals for his country, as well as playing for the British and Irish Lions.

He hung up his boots during the 2007-08 season but has decided to resume his career with a team who finished ninth in National North Two last season.

Robinson, who is also expected to be involved in off-the-pitch activities, will also be working again with Mark Nelson, Sale's backs coach in their Premiership-winning 2005-06 season.

Nelson, now Fylde head coach, said: "I am absolutely delighted we have signed Jason for next season. Given his record in both codes of the game, it's not an exaggeration to say he is the best ever rugby player.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for our players to play alongside such an experienced and mercurial talent and I expect a number of players will express an interest in joining the club to have a similar opportunity."