Director of Rugby: Mark McCall
Captain: Alistair Hargreaves
Position 2013/2014; 1st
Predicted Position 2014/2015: 3rd
Saracens Season Preview:
What looked like being a superb season for Saracens ended up being a bit of a disaster. Losing both the Premiership and European Finals would have been an incalculable result for Mark McCall and his coaching team, but it’s exactly what transpired.
There has also been some high profile departures from the squad that will make Saracens fans wonder if their squad is up to scratch to challenge on all fronts this season.
Steve Borthwick was a brilliant captain of the side and Alistair Hargreaves has an unenviable job in replacing him as captain. The loss of Matt Stevens has been softened with the signing of Argentinean prop Juan Figallo. Experienced Scottish international Jim Hamilton will take Borthwick’s place in the squad.
The loss of Borthwick’s leadership qualities could be the biggest blow of all to the team. This is where the likes of Kelly Brown, Owen Farrell and Alex Goode have to step up to the mark. Brown is made for this role but Goode and especially Farrell need to step up to the plate.
Make no mistake Saracens still have a very strong squad. Chris Ashton’s return to form in the second half of last season should bode well for him. Jacques Burger is arguably the best player at the breakdown in the Premiership and Schalk Brits is one of the best hookers in world rugby with ball in hand.
Sarries will finish in the top 3. They are a phenomenal force at home, but I see them losing more games on the road in the coming season.
Players In:
Kieran Longbottom (Prop) from Western Force
Juan Figallo (Prop) from Montpellier
Jim Hamilton (Second Row) from Montpellier
Mike Ellery (Wing) from England Sevens
Players Out:
Steve Borthwick Retired
Nick Auterac (Prop) to Bath Rugby
Matt Stevens (Prop) to Natal Sharks
Jared Saunders (Prop) to Bedford Blues
Max Crumpton (Hooker) to Bristol Rugby
Tom Jubb (Second Row) to Plymouth Albion
Nick Fenton-Wells (Back Row) to Bedford Blues
Joel Tomkins (Centre) to Wigan Warriors Rugby League
Michael Tagicakibau (Wing) to Scarlets
James Short (Wing) to London Irish
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