Owen Farrell, once the linchpin of England’s rugby setup and now a veteran of the Saracens, is sidestepping questions about a potential return to the international stage. After a hiatus post-2023 World Cup, aimed at prioritizing his mental well-being and family life, Farrell's recent stint with the British and Irish Lions has reignited conversations about his future with England.
Farrell, who captained the Lions in Australia and played against the First Nations & Pasifika XV, followed by appearances in the second and third Tests, has been the subject of speculation about a comeback to Steve Borthwick’s England squad. However, the seasoned player is currently channeling his energies into his club commitments. "I’m going to get myself back playing well for Saracens and enjoying myself," Farrell shared with Sky Sports, hinting at a cautious approach to his international prospects.
"We’ll see where we’re at."
His return to Saracens has been met with enthusiasm, not just by the fans but by Farrell himself. After a year at Racing 92 in France's Top 14, the pull of home proved strong. "I’ve only been back in a week," he remarked. The team is fresh from a pre-season in South Africa, gearing up for their opener against Newcastle. Farrell added, "I had a good break after the [Lions] tour; some of the lads are still away, but we had a good pre-season trip to South Africa [to play the Sharks] and now building into the first game against Newcastle, which should be a cracker."
If he does step back into the England jersey, Farrell’s experience will be invaluable. With 112 caps and four Lions tours under his belt, not to mention being the first Lions player to clinch two Test series, his pedigree is unquestioned. Yet, for now, his allegiance lies firmly with Saracens, as he focuses on rediscovering the form that made him a cornerstone of English rugby.
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Owen Farrell, once the linchpin of England’s rugby setup and now a veteran of the Saracens, is sidestepping questions about a potential return to the international stage. After a hiatus post-2023 World Cup, aimed at prioritizing his mental well-being and family life, Farrell's recent stint with the British and Irish Lions has reignited conversations about his future with England.
Farrell, who captained the Lions in Australia and played against the First Nations & Pasifika XV, followed by appearances in the second and third Tests, has been the subject of speculation about a comeback to Steve Borthwick’s England squad. However, the seasoned player is currently channeling his energies into his club commitments. "I’m going to get myself back playing well for Saracens and enjoying myself," Farrell shared with Sky Sports, hinting at a cautious approach to his international prospects.
"We’ll see where we’re at."
His return to Saracens has been met with enthusiasm, not just by the fans but by Farrell himself. After a year at Racing 92 in France's Top 14, the pull of home proved strong. "I’ve only been back in a week," he remarked. The team is fresh from a pre-season in South Africa, gearing up for their opener against Newcastle. Farrell added, "I had a good break after the [Lions] tour; some of the lads are still away, but we had a good pre-season trip to South Africa [to play the Sharks] and now building into the first game against Newcastle, which should be a cracker."
If he does step back into the England jersey, Farrell’s experience will be invaluable. With 112 caps and four Lions tours under his belt, not to mention being the first Lions player to clinch two Test series, his pedigree is unquestioned. Yet, for now, his allegiance lies firmly with Saracens, as he focuses on rediscovering the form that made him a cornerstone of English rugby.