Saracens can confirm today that Owen Farrell will be departing the club at the end of the season. Emphasizing the priority of Owen’s and his family’s well-being, this decision has been made with careful consideration.
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Owen and his family hold a significant place in the heart of Saracens, and while his departure marks a farewell, it is not a final goodbye.
The club will be unveiling various tributes to honor Owen’s immense contribution to Saracens’ success before the season concludes, including a special recognition of his 250th appearance at The Showdown 4 on Saturday, March 23rd.
Having joined Saracens at the age of 14, Owen is regarded as a once-in-a-generation player by all within the club. His tenacity on the field, camaraderie as a teammate, and commitment to family off the pitch have solidified his status as the linchpin of Saracens since his senior debut.
In reflecting on his time with the club, Owen shared, “Leaving a place that has been my home since I was 14 is tough. This is where I’ve grown up, formed friendships, and started my family. While it’s a difficult decision, it holds excitement for our family. Saracens is not an easy place to depart from. The club has shown tremendous support, reflecting their genuine care for individuals.”
Expressing gratitude towards the Saracens community, Owen added, “I have cherished every aspect of this club, particularly the people, and I will always be indebted to the fans who faithfully support us each weekend. Playing for this club has never been taken for granted.”
Looking ahead, Owen affirmed his commitment to making the remainder of the season memorable, stating, “As we approach the final stages of the year, our focus is on making it the best it can be. I eagerly anticipate embracing these moments in the months to come.”
Four players who’ve been blacklisted by England boss Steve Borthwick
Rumour has it that Head Coach Borthwick has shifted focus from a number of aging stars, who have disclosed their plans for next season.
Zach Mercer
Mercer, has declared that he’s taking a break from England duty for the time being, expressing his disappointment at being excluded from the upcoming Six Nations Championship squad.
Mercer said: “I’ve been open with Steve, I’ve told him my opinions on it. I thought I haven’t really been given a crack which is what I feel like, to not even be given a game to try and prove myself is tough.
“I just don’t feel like he values what I can offer as a player and that’s me being honest, I don’t think he values what I can bring.
“Obviously I don’t fit into the system that he wants to run and, whether I agree with that or not, it is what it is.
“My focus now is on Gloucester and England can take a step aside for the moment.”
Borthwick response:
“Zach and I had a conversation last week. We’ve had a number of conversations over the last couple of weeks with Zach since he’s come back from injury.
“We’ve highlighted areas where players have done well and the areas where they bring a point of difference. It’s a competitive arena.
“And [we highlight] areas where we want them to develop them and add to their game. That’s the same conversation I had with Zach.
“When I’m talking to a player, I’m basing it in objectivity. I’m basing it on targets for them to go after, and then we can shape a shared understanding of what we’re seeing.
“Granted, sometimes as a coach you want something specific in a team, I’m always looking at all the coaches and all the players that are able to provide that.”