Rugby Union: Sale Sharks winger Mark Cueto to retire at end of season

Mark Cueto has announced he will retire from rugby at the end of the season.

The Sale Sharks winger is the all-time leading try scorer in the Aviva Premiership with 87 tries to his name.

The 34-year-old has played 294 games for Sale Sharks and has represented England on 55 occasions.

Cueto, who toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2005, was also an integral part of the England squads that played in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.

“The time has finally come to end my career and I would like to thank the owners, the coaches, backroom staff and the office staff who down the years have helped me in my career,” Cueto said.

“When I made my debut at Bristol back in 2001 I could hardly have dreamed that I would play for Sale Sharks for 14 seasons, represented my country all over the world and played with and against some of the all-time greats.”

Cueto will take up a role with Sharks’ commercial department and will become the club’s first ambassador.

Sharks CEO Jonny Kennedy said, “Mark has been an outstanding player for the club throughout his career. A professional sports Ccub rarely experiences having the pleasure of retaining a player for their entire career, so I'd like to thank Mark for his sterling commitment for the last 14 years.

“Whilst at the club, Mark has achieved honours for England and the British & Irish Lions and is the Premiership top try scorer of all time. His commitment and loyalty to both club and country are an inspiration to all and are values that will greatly assist him in his business career.

“I'm delighted that Mark is continuing his involvement with the club as an ambassador, amongst his duties he will be hosting the private executive boxes on match days at the AJ Bell stadium.

"He is popular with the sponsors and the fans and will hopefully play a big part in the club's progress in the years to come.”