DANNY Cipriani says the potential at Sale was a major reason for his decision to sign a new contract.

The 27-year-old penned a two-year deal last week instead of joining Toulon in a big-money move.

The England fly-half, who inspired the Sharks to a 14-10 Premiership victory over Saracens last weekend, says the chance to rebuild his England career was key to his decision, as was what he sees as a bright future for Sale.

Cipriani, who could feature for England against Ireland in the Six Nations this weekend, said: "The thing that swayed it was obviously getting the opportunity to play for England but you look at the youngsters we have coming through here at Sale and it's exciting.

"It feels like me when I was younger and they're probably the most talented group in the Premiership. There are a good six of them.

"The Toulon offer was tempting because out of all the clubs in the world, Toulon does tempt you with the set-up.

"But I feel like we're really building something here and as a squad we're doing extremely well.

"We're going to invest for next season and, if we add to this squad, I think you'll see how powerful we can be."

Cipriani is in his third season at Sale – who travel to Leicester Tigers on Saturday – and club boss Steve Diamond, said: "Danny was given a simple question in December.

"He had to tell us by the end of February what he was doing and that was the only discussion we ever had.

"He rang me last week and said he was staying, so I was really delighted.

"He's a team player and I think he fits into our set-up well, plus he enjoys Manchester.

"His performances have come from his contentedness of living up here. He's ambitious and so are we as a club."