Saracens second-row Maro Itoje has opened up on star playmaker Owen Farrell’s return to the North London-based outfit and what he brings to the Premiership club.
Farrell joined Top 14 club Racing 92 at the start of last season, but after just one campaign in France’s top flight, the utility back returned to Saracens and has impressed since rejoining the Premiership outfit.
The 34-year-old has started at centre in both Sarries‘ league matches against Newcastle Red Bulls and Bristol Bears and delivered outstanding performances in both outings.
The former England captain finished with a 12-point haul in Saracens’ 39-17 victory over Newcastle Red Bulls at Kingston Park before contributing 15 points in last weekend’s 50-17 triumph over Bristol Bears at the StoneX Stadium.
Itoje, who is the current England skipper and who also skippered the British & Irish Lions on their recent tour of Australia, and Farrell were team-mates while on duty with the famous touring team and is delighted to have the experienced campaigner alongside him at club level again.
‘Him coming back is exciting’
“Obviously, Owen coming back makes any team better,” he told the Telegraph. “So, him coming back is exciting.”
Itoje was also asked about Farrell’s possible return to Test action after last representing England at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Farrell stepped away from international rugby after the global showpiece citing a need to focus on his and his family’s mental well-being but has said he is still available for England selection since returning to Sarries.
“As I said, I think he makes any team better,” added Itoje. “That’s going to be for him and the others to decide in the direction but I think he’s such a quality player.
Andy Farrell lays bare the ‘brutal’ level of ‘disgusting’ abuse Owen Farrell got as a young player
“When he came to the Lions, I automatically felt he was so willing and able to support me with his time, with his thoughts, about how we can move the team forward in a team-first sort of way, which I found really admirable.
“He’s just an impressive guy. I just wish the best for him. I want the best for English rugby.
“I have a bit of a vested interest in that. So whatever that is, let it come to pass. I think the quality is still there for sure.”
Itoje revealed that the Lions tour is something which made a lasting impression on him.
‘I absolutely loved the tour’
“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,” he said.
“The only bad thing that happened on the tour was that we didn’t win the third Test. Obviously, you want that to happen, but Australia [have] since gone on to show that they’re not mugs.
“I’m beyond happy that we were able to get the job done. The bonds that we’ve fostered with my team-mates and staff, it will live strongly and deeply in my heart for a very long time.
“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.”