Maro Itoje signs new long-term deal in Saracens boost after Owen Farrell's decision to leave for Racing 92

Maro Itoje says he sees “massively exciting times ahead” at Saracens after signing a new long-term contract.

The 29-year-old second-rower has made 175 appearances for the Gallagher Premiership club and won the five league titles with them.

His decision to extend his deal comes after team-mate Owen Farrell agreed to join Racing 92 in the summer.

"Saracens is my home and I couldn't be happier to be staying here," said Itoje, who made his Saracens debut aged just 19 in 2013.

"Looking back I am very proud of what we have achieved over the last 10 years and it is the best place for me to keep progressing.

"With the squad we have I really believe we have some massively exciting times ahead and I can't wait to be a part of it moving forward."

Itoje has won 76 international caps and is set to start for England in their Six Nations opener against Italy on Saturday.

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall added: "Maro has gone from a promising academy prospect to a global figure in rugby.

"He is a world-class player, but what sets Maro apart is his dedication to his craft; the standard he sets, how he goes about his work on and off the field and how this expresses his love for the club and for the game.

"We know the best of Maro is yet to come."

Saracens are currently fourth in the Premiership, eight points behind leaders Northampton Saints.

They will meet Bordeaux Begles in the last 16 of the Investec Champions Cup in April and will be looking to avenge their 55-15 defeat to the French side earlier this month.

- - -

TNT Sports presents the premium live sports rights previously carried by BT Sport including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Investec Champions Cup, EPCR Challenge Cup, MotoGP, Cricket, UFC, Boxing and WWE. The streaming home for TNT Sports in the UK is discovery+, where fans can enjoy a subscription that includes TNT Sports, Eurosport and entertainment in one destination. You can also watch TNT Sports through BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.