Saracens have agreed to release Brent Russell to allow the South Africa full-back to join French outfit Clermont.
Saracens agree to release South African ace
Saracens have agreed to release Brent Russell to allow the South Africa full-back to join Clermont.
The 28-year-old has struggled to make an impact at Vicarage Road since arriving at the club in August 2007 - with Russell suffering a broken collarbone within days of joining.
A shoulder injury, combined with the form of the likes of Noah Cato, Chris Wyles and Richard Haughton, have meant Russell has yet to feature for the Saracens first team so far this season.
And following discussions with Russell, director of rugby Eddie Jones has agreed to let him head to France to join Clermont.
"Brent is at the stage of his career where he needs to be playing regular first team rugby and we are unable to offer that at this time," Jones told the club's official site.
"We have strength in depth across the back three and in the last two weeks we have seen the exciting steps forward that Noah Cato has taken, while Chris Wyles continues to impress following his arrival on secondment from USA Rugby.
"Also, with players like Kameli Ratuvou, Richard Haughton, Francisco Leonelli, Rodd Penney, Edd Thrower and Dan Scarbrough within the squad, we have a number of options.
Popular
"With that in mind, when this opportunity arose for Brent to move to one of the leading clubs in France, we felt it would be wrong to stand in his way. He's very popular with players and supporters alike and we all wish him the best for the future."
Russell admitted the move to France had come out of the blue but he was looking forward to kick-starting his career in the Top 14 competition.
Russell said: "The offer from Clermont came out of left field and was totally unexpected. I had high expectations for my season here at Saracens - especially after some good pre-season training - and I was looking forward to playing some great rugby when I damaged ligaments in my right shoulder.
"Apart from the series of injuries, I have been very settled and happy here at Saracens and have made some very good mates who I will really miss.
"However, the life of a professional sportsman is all about taking one's opportunities and the offer from Clermont is a good one.
"I am really looking forward to getting involved in the French style of play and feel that playing in France will suit my game. I am looking forward to the challenge."
