Austin Healey and David Flatman shared their perspectives on the rumors surrounding the potential transfer of the renowned “Mr. Saracens” to Racing 92 for the upcoming season.
Currently on a hiatus from international rugby, the 32-year-old has been associated with a move to France.
French reports indicate that Farrell might join forces with former England head coach Stuart Lancaster at Racing.
While the club has issued a statement refuting any finalised agreements, they have not explicitly dismissed their interest in Farrell or the possibility of ongoing discussions.
Healey said: “In a lot of ways it’s quite sad, not for Owen, I think it would be a brilliant opportunity, but for Saracens they’ve given him a lot, he’s given them a lot so it would be sad to see him leave Sarries,” he said.
“He’s been entwined with that place since he was a child so that would be the end of an era, but maybe for him on personal grounds it would be quite a good move, not only for his bank balance but also for his psyche.”
Former Bath and England prop David Flatman said: “I am surprised because he’s synonymous as Mr. Sarries,” said the ex-Bath front-row.
“Saracens are one of the great clubs and it seems to be one of those clubs that people really really don’t want to leave unless there’s absolutely no space for them so it surprises me from that point of view.
“Does it surprise me that he wants to go and play for Racing 92 with those coaches and all those players for a bit, if it’s true, it absolutely doesn’t surprise me at all.
“He’s a great player, a great man and they’d be lucky to have him, if he goes.”
Nigel Owens ranks who is worst to referee between Dan Biggar, Owen Farrell and Johnny Sexton
Despite his busy schedule managing his farm, Owens remains engaged in the rugby community, lending his expertise as a pundit and appearing in video features for prominent platforms such as the BBC, Amazon Prime, and World Rugby.
While he no longer referees professional club games, his last match in that capacity was a centenary fixture between Trimsaran and Llanelli, which took place in March of this year.
Arguably, the three worst players to deal with these days are Owen Farrell, Dan Biggar and Johnny Sexton.
Owens has had his say on all three, ranking them from worst to best.
#3. Owen Farrell (England)
Farrell, the English rugby captain, epitomizes leadership and respect. Renowned for his versatility as a fly-half or centre, he combines skill and discipline, serving as a linchpin in England’s rugby campaigns.
Nigel Owens said: “I can only speak from my own experience of refereeing him and, when I did, he was an excellent captain to deal with.
“I have a huge amount of respect for him as a player and a person. He always knew where the line was with me.
“I would say to him that he could always come and talk to me as long as it was at the right time and in the right tone and he always did that.”