SALE Sharks' Mark Cueto has today announced that he will retire at the end of the current season.

The Aviva Premiership's all-time leading try-scorer with 87 tries to his name has made 294 appearances for the Sharks since his debut against Bristol in 2001.

Explaining his decision to retire Cueto said: "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 will now join the commercial department in a move which will make him the first Ambassador in the club's history.

Commenting on Cueto's decision to remain at the club CEO Jonny Kennedy said: "I'm delighted that Mark is continuing his involvement with the club as an Ambassador.

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

Throughout his 14 year career, Cueto has racked up an impressive 55 England caps and a Lions Tour in 2005 as well as playing in both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.