- England legend Jason Robinson to play for Fylde this season
- World Cup winner comes out of retirement for National Two (North) side
England Rugby World Cup winner and Great Britain rugby league legend Jason Robinson OBE, has decided to come out of retirement and play for Fylde RFC in the 2010/11 season.
Robinson, who celebrates his 36th birthday on July 30, will play for the Lytham St Annes based side in their National Two (North) campaign this term.
'Great' is a vastly overused word in sport, but former British Lion Robinson wears the label with ease.
In a career crowned by his Rugby World Cup final try against Australia in 2003, Robinson represented England 51 times and twice toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2001 (Australia) and 2005 (New Zealand).
This was preceded by a trophy laden career in rugby league with a dominant Wigan Warriors side and 12 caps for Great Britain.
Following retirement in the 2007/8 season and a spell coaching at Sale Sharks, he's keen to return to playing the game that he loves and feels that he can still make an important contribution, on and off the pitch.
Fylde delighted with Robinson acquisition
His return to action at Brooklands sees him teaming up again with Fylde Head Coach Mark Nelson, Sale's backs coach in their Premiership winning 2005/6 season, and former England Head Coach Brian Ashton, who has recently returned to his former club in a coaching role.
"I am absolutely delighted," said Nelson.
"Given his record in both codes of the game, it's not an exaggeration to say that he is the best ever rugby player. It's a fantastic opportunity for our players to play alongside such an experienced and mercurial talent.
"I expect a number of players will express an interest in joining the club to have a similar opportunity."
"It’s a remarkably fortunate coincidence for me to be returning to help out my old club Fylde as Jason arrives to play," added Ashton.
"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."