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Rugby Union

Jones signs Saracens deal

04/01/2008

Saracens have confirmed that former Australia coach Eddie Jones will be the club's new director of rugby at the end of the season.

Jones has signed a three-year deal with the Guinness Premiership side, having been an advisor at the London club since 2006.

The Australian will replace Alan Gaffney, who will move into a part-time role with Saracens.

Gaffney, who guided Saracens to fourth in the Premiership last season, said the change would not affect the player's performances.

"It was always agreed that at the end of my two-year contract, I would be stepping down from the role with Eddie taking over," Gaffney said.

"With stability at the club at present, this has undoubtedly contributed to our competitiveness in all competitions this season.

"That stability will continue with Eddie and with the long-term commitment he can give to Saracens, I think this is best for the club."

Saracens lie third in the Guinness Premiership, are top of their Heineken Cup group, and are in the semi-finals of the EDF Energy Cup.

Jones coached Australia to the 2003 World Cup final, where the Wallabies lost to England, but he won a winners' medal last year after acting as technical advisor with South Africa who beat England in the final.

Saracens chief executive Mark Sinderberry said he was confident of success because of Jones' impressive spell with the club at the end of the 2006 season.

"Eddie's knowledge of Saracens and his close relationship with Alan means we are expecting a seamless transition," Sinderberry said.

"I am delighted that Alan will be remaining with the club in a part-time role and he will continue to be a huge asset to Saracens."