Owen Farrell: Saracens delay in announcing Racing 92 deal 'doesn't do anyone any favours' - Chris Ashton

Saracens have to “tick a couple of boxes” before announcing Owen Farrell’s move to Racing 92, but the delay “doesn’t do anyone any favours”, according to TNT Sports expert Chris Ashton.

The French club announced this week that the former England captain will join them on a two-year deal at the end of the season, ending a hugely successful 16-year spell with Sarries.

However, the London side are yet to make their own announcement of a move that will see Farrell - England’s all-time top points scorer - become ineligible for international selection due to RFU rules.

Ashton, who played for seven clubs including Saracens during his career, explained why the delay might be happening ahead of Sarries’ Gallagher Premiership clash with Exeter Chiefs, live on TNT Sports.

“I think if you’re Racing, you’re going to do it as quickly as you can and not care about anybody else - that’s what normally happens with the French clubs,” the former Toulon wing said.

“But I think there are just a couple of boxes that need ticking - medicals, transfer fees - before Saracens are going to announce it.

“I don’t think it does anyone any favours, especially Owen having to play every week, not having confirmed everything is done.”

Lawrence Dallaglio believes that Saracens need to draw a line under the story and move on sooner or later, as it appears to be having an impact on their form.

Sarries went into Saturday night’s clash at the StoneX Stadium in patchy form, after losing three of their previous five games in all competitions.

Mark McCall’s side are at risk of missing out on a place in the play-offs as they look to defend their Premiership crown and went into the round in seventh place, four points outside the top four.

“McCall seems quite weary of having to answer questions about it all the time,” Dallaglio said.

“Owen Farrell has stepped away from international rugby and ever since he’s done that - he’s got every right to have done that - Saracens haven’t been playing well.

“Clearly the noise off the field - and yes, there are a few injuries - is having an effect.”

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