Owen Farrell 'happy' with England decision but not ruling out international return ahead of Saracens exit

Owen Farrell says he remains “happy” with his decision to step away from playing for England – but has not ruled out an international return.

The 32-year-old will depart his boyhood club at the end of the season to move to France.

It will mean Farrell will no longer be considered for England selection as players competing outside of the Gallagher Premiership are not eligible.

Farrell has not played for England since the Rugby World Cup last summer as he stepped away to “prioritise his and his family's mental wellbeing".

Speaking about his time out of the international spotlight, Farrell said: “It’s been nice to spend some time with my family and to do some things that I don’t normally get the chance to do.

“I was just trying to get back to enjoying myself, trying to get back to enjoying my rugby and loving what I’m doing. I’m working to doing that.

“It’s never one thing when you come to a decision. Obviously there’s a change next year off the back of it as well. I’ve obviously done that because I think it’d be good for me. And I’m hoping that that gives me the space to get back to enjoying what I’m doing. It’s a new challenge and one that hopefully is good for us.”

On missing playing for England, he added: “I guess you sit and watch any massive game and wish you were involved, but I'm happy with the decision at the moment, not to say that won't be up and down."

Farrell has signed a two-year deal with French Top 14 side Racing 92.

He is set to make his 250th appearance for Saracens when they face Harlequins on Saturday afternoon, live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Asked about his international future, he said: “I’ve stepped back and there’s obviously a change happening next year [moving to France]. Then we’ll see. There’s no point in saying anything now because I don’t know how I’m going to feel later down the line.

“I want to play for as long as I possibly can as long as I am enjoying it. I love playing. That’s always been the case, even during the tougher bits as I’ve spoken about.

“I want to enjoy all of it a bit more. I’ve been getting back to doing it here at the club, I’ve done that over this time during the Six Nations, and I want to really do that towards the end of the year. And then I want to get better at it next year as well. That’s how I think I am going to get the best out of myself and play my best. We’ll see what happens.”

Farrell could also be chosen for next year's British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, when his father Andy will be the head coach.

"Have I spoken to my dad about it? I've told him 'well done', if that counts," said Farrell.

"There's nothing to talk about -- whatever happens, happens. There are no decisions to be made about any of that.

"When it gets closer to the time, I guess things become clear or they don't. You see how people are at that time. There is nothing to talk about there at the minute."

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