Wed 3 Apr 2024 | 10:07

The 24-year-old chosen to take over from Owen Farrell

With Owen Farrell’s well-documented move to Racing 92 just on the horizon, Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall has been hot on the heels of a replacement. 

The exit of Farrell will leave a gaping leadership hole for others to quickly try and shut. A team full of experienced internationals should have the ability to step up and lead despite their fearless leader's exit - but will it be enough? The squad is ageing and needs young blood to come through and guide those at the StoneX to a new age.

The successor to the Farrell dynasty appears to now have been chosen, and it comes in the form of 24-year-old Crusader, Fergus Burke.

Saracens' new man has signed a 3-year deal with the London side as he looks to step out of the shadows of his former mentor Richie Mo'unga and into the dawn light of his new club.

Burke is dual-qualified for both Scotland and England, leading to what in future could prove an interesting battle between the two nations over his allegiance. For the time being, however, the new man has detailed his excitement ahead of the new challenge.

“I’m excited and grateful to be joining such a prestigious club," Burke said. "I am looking forward to coming over and meeting everyone at the club and all of the Saracens supporters.”

PUKEKOHE, NEW ZEALAND - SEPTEMBER 13: Fergus Burke of Canterbury warms up during the round six Bunnings Warehouse NPC match between Counties Manukau and Canterbury at Navigation Homes Stadium, on September 13, 2023, in Pukekohe, New Zealand. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)

Director of Rugby Mark McCall also welcomed his new signing to the StoneX, saying:

“Fergus is a very exciting addition to our squad and the Gallagher Premiership. His playing ability and potential is obvious and we have been hugely impressed by his ambition and desire to take his game to the next level. At 24, Fergus joins a group of players who we believe can take the club forward in the years to come.”

Saracens fans have been getting very excited about the new signing, with Laura Turner saying: "I mean, it’s going to take a LOT for me to get over Farrell. Not sure I ever will, however, Fergus looks pretty damn awesome and of course will receive the biggest and warmest of welcomes. Big boots to fill, HUGE, but excited to see him take to the field in the Saracens shirt." 

Andy Scales added: "I'm a Sarries fan and an honorary Saders fan... don't get much better than this!"