Andy Farrell Addresses Saracens Links, Future with Ireland
Ireland’s head coach, Andy Farrell, has acknowledged he will hold discussions with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) regarding his future, following speculation linking him to a return to Saracens. The conversations will grab place after the conclusion of the current Guinness Six Nations campaign.
Saracens Speculation
Recent reports suggested that Saracens, where Farrell previously played and coached, and where his son Owen currently plays, had expressed interest in the coach for a role following the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Saracens have since released a statement distancing themselves from reports of a formal offer, stating no offer has been made
.
Farrell admitted the links were understandable, attributing them to people putting two and two together and making five
due to his existing relationships with the club’s owner and his son’s presence on the team.
Commitment to the Six Nations
Despite the speculation, Farrell emphasized his current focus remains firmly on the Six Nations. You’d expect me to say I’m here to concentrate on the Six Nations and what will be, will be in the future,
he stated.
Team Changes for Wales Match
Ahead of Friday’s match against Wales, Farrell announced five changes to the Irish starting lineup. Jacob Stockdale replaces the injured James Lowe, with starts also for Tom O’Toole, Rónan Kelleher, Jack Conan, and Nick Timoney. Ulster scrum-half Nathan Doak is in line for a potential debut from the bench.
Squad Decisions
Bundee Aki was not included in the matchday squad despite completing a four-game suspension. Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose are the preferred centres, with Tom Farrell named as a replacement.
“It was close enough that he’s training with us for three days,” Farrell said of his decision not to include Aki.
RTÉ
Farrell highlighted the increasing depth within the squad, noting the return of players like Jimmy O’Brien and Robbie Henshaw.
Facing Wales
Ireland has not lost to Wales since 2021, yet, Farrell anticipates a competitive match, acknowledging Wales’ improved performance and confidence following a close contest against Scotland.
“It’s been written many a times about the decline and how unfortunate it’s been, but at the same time we’re playing them in a Test match on Friday night and, from what I’ve seen from game one, like ourselves, they’ve got better every week.”
RTÉ
Looking Ahead
The team aims to secure a Triple Crown decider against Scotland in their next match.
FAQ
- Will Andy Farrell leave Ireland? Farrell will discuss his future with the IRFU after the Six Nations.
- Is Andy Farrell going to Saracens? Reports linking him to Saracens have been dismissed by the club, and Farrell has downplayed the speculation.
- Who has been selected for the Ireland vs Wales match? Five changes have been made to the Irish starting lineup, including starts for Stockdale, O’Toole, Kelleher, Conan, and Timoney.
Watch Ireland v Wales in the Six Nations on Friday from 7pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Follow a live blog on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport. Listen to commentary on an extended Inside Sport on RTÉ Radio 1