SARACENS COACH, ANDY Farrell has confirmed that he will not continue working with the English national team.
The news will come as a blow to the RFU and Stuart Lancaster as Farrell had been seen as a vital part in the interim set-up at a time when England was still reeling from a disastrous World Cup.
Farrell’s role had been questioned in some quarters who hypothesised a problem should his son, Owen, come across some poor form in the number 10 jersey.
The younger Farrell also stars at Saracens, where his father has two years remaining on his contract.
“It has been a special privilege for me to be involved in the Saracens coaching staff for the past two-and-half seasons. We have made decent progress during this period,” Farrell told his club’s official website.
“But, in truth, as a club, we have barely scratched the surface of our potential. The job isn’t anywhere near half done, and I have decided I want to help finish the job.”
Graham Rowntree will continue to take charge of the pack, but Lancaster will now be forced to look elsewhere for his backs coach.
Wayne Smith, who acted as assistant during the All Blacks’ World Cup success, is thought to have a strong interest in the role.
