Maro Itoje, the towering presence in Saracens' second-row, has shed light on Owen Farrell's impactful return to the Premiership after a stint with Racing 92 in France's Top 14. Farrell, who last adorned the England jersey at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has since dazzled in his club comeback, notably in Saracens' clashes against Newcastle Red Bulls and Bristol Bears, where his performances were nothing short of stellar.
Farrell, a seasoned campaigner, racked up 12 points in the 39-17 thrashing of Newcastle and followed up with 15 points against Bristol in a whopping 50-17 victory. His seamless reintegration has buoyed the spirits at Saracens, with Itoje, now the England captain and recent Lions skipper, expressing his thrill at having Farrell back. "Obviously, Owen coming back makes any team better. So, him coming back is exciting,” he commented with an air of anticipation for the squad's prospects.
"He's just an impressive guy. I just wish the best for him. I want the best for English rugby."
Farrell's influence extends beyond the field. Itoje highlighted the admirable support Farrell extended during the Lions' tour, noting his readiness to share insights and prioritize team success. This team-oriented attitude left a strong imprint on Itoje, who cherished the tour despite its challenges, including a heartbreaking loss in the third Test against Australia. "I had a great time; I absolutely loved the tour. I loved being a part of it, I loved being stressed, challenged in that way," Itoje reflected.
The bonds formed during that time, according to Itoje, are enduring. "Doing that with those players, those teams, the coaches, it was just amazing. I know I was captain, but it was well and truly a team effort," he added, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined their journey.
As Farrell contemplates a return to international play, his presence at Saracens continues to be a beacon of excellence and experience. His potential re-donning of the England kit remains a tantalizing prospect for fans and teammates alike, signaling exciting times ahead for English rugby.
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Maro Itoje, the towering presence in Saracens' second-row, has shed light on Owen Farrell's impactful return to the Premiership after a stint with Racing 92 in France's Top 14. Farrell, who last adorned the England jersey at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has since dazzled in his club comeback, notably in Saracens' clashes against Newcastle Red Bulls and Bristol Bears, where his performances were nothing short of stellar.
Farrell, a seasoned campaigner, racked up 12 points in the 39-17 thrashing of Newcastle and followed up with 15 points against Bristol in a whopping 50-17 victory. His seamless reintegration has buoyed the spirits at Saracens, with Itoje, now the England captain and recent Lions skipper, expressing his thrill at having Farrell back. "Obviously, Owen coming back makes any team better. So, him coming back is exciting,” he commented with an air of anticipation for the squad's prospects.
"He's just an impressive guy. I just wish the best for him. I want the best for English rugby."
Farrell's influence extends beyond the field. Itoje highlighted the admirable support Farrell extended during the Lions' tour, noting his readiness to share insights and prioritize team success. This team-oriented attitude left a strong imprint on Itoje, who cherished the tour despite its challenges, including a heartbreaking loss in the third Test against Australia. "I had a great time; I absolutely loved the tour. I loved being a part of it, I loved being stressed, challenged in that way," Itoje reflected.
The bonds formed during that time, according to Itoje, are enduring. "Doing that with those players, those teams, the coaches, it was just amazing. I know I was captain, but it was well and truly a team effort," he added, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined their journey.
As Farrell contemplates a return to international play, his presence at Saracens continues to be a beacon of excellence and experience. His potential re-donning of the England kit remains a tantalizing prospect for fans and teammates alike, signaling exciting times ahead for English rugby.