Skysports.com examines Saracens' chances for 2008-9 after last year's sixth-placed finish and the appointment of Eddie Jones.
New regime at Vicarage Road
Eddie Jones has arrived at Saracens armed with an enviable coaching portfolio.
Jones, 48, steered Australia to the 2003 World Cup final as head coach, then helped guide South Africa towards global glory last autumn in the support role of technical adviser.
He also masterminded Canberra-based ACT Brumbies' first Super 12 title in 2001, but Jones' vast rugby knowledge, managerial skills and coaching expertise now face another significant examination.
Saracens marked Alan Gaffney's final year in office by securing Heineken Cup and EDF Energy Cup semi-final places last season.
The fact remains though that Saracens have not won a major trophy since 1998, which means those critics who love to tag them as consistent under-achievers still have plenty of opportunities to do so.
For Jones, who has taken over in the hot-seat from his fellow Australian Gaffney, it means quickly coming to terms with the gruelling demands of a Premiership campaign that will not end until May 16 if Saracens reach their first Twickenham grand final.
Changes
Jones is one of five new faces to arrive at the club - and the Saracens most notable signing has been Bath's skipper Steve Borthwick.
Ironically Borthwick made his Bath debut for his new suitors and he will be looking to add his experience to help his new club.
Saracens have also added the trio of Ben Jacobs, Michael Owen and Wikus van Heerden to the ranks.
Two experienced players - Richard Hill and Paul Gustard - have now retired, while Adrian Kennedy and Alan Dickens have moved to Taranaki and Northampton respectively.
However, Saracens are about to reap the benefits of rugby the 'Eddie Jones way' - and it is an exciting prospect that could see them end that frustrating 10-year wait for silverware.
