A 'true driver and role model for rugby in the north', Beaumont admits the decision to retire at the end of the season was effectively taken out of his hands, plus he confirms he will stay with Sale Sharks in a commercial role.
Having lost to Leicester in the league four weeks ago, the England prop says he shouldered the blame for Sale's shortcomings but now, as a collective, the Sharks are out to right some wrongs on their return to Welford Road.
Sale Sharks produced a dominant display to overpower Saracens 25-7 at the Salford Community Stadium, boosting their Premiership playoff ambitions and moving into second place on the table.
Despite missing the trip to the south of France with a minor calf problem, Sale’s full-back insists his teammates will not arrive in Toulouse with a defeatist attitude as they prepare to tackle the reigning European champions.
Despite missing some of their key England internationals, the Sharks should rightfully ooze confidence against league leaders Bath having not lost a domestic fixture in the North-West for over a year.