England next after Farrell quits Sarries? (From Times Series)

Andy Farrell leaves Saracens raising prospect of return to England

12:09pm Friday 1st June 2012 in Ryman Premier Division Table & Results By Anthony Matthews, Group Sports Editor

Andy Farrell has dramatically quit Saracens, opening the door for a possible return to the England set-up.

The former backs coach rejected the chance to link up on a permanent basis with national coach Stuart Lancaster in April after a successful Six Nations campaign but Farrell has now decided to resign his post with the Men in Black.

He has been replaced by club stalwart Kevin Sorrell and in a brief statement on the club’s website, director of rugby Mark McCall said: “Kevin is making a swift and successful transition from outstanding player to outstanding coach.

“He is Saracens through and through, and we are delighted he has agreed to take up this important post.”

Chairman Nigel Wray said: “We are sorry to see Andy leave, and we wish him well in the future.”

Farrell’s son, Owen, has become a key part of Lancaster’s new-look team but after the RFU failed to land his father, Mike Catt was appointed interim backs coach for the tour to South Africa.

However, it has been claimed that contact was re-opened with Farrell and this may have led to his decision.