Highly rated England star set to revive Test ambitions after quitting French club – report

England utility back Joe Marchant is set to make a return to the international arena with England after reportedly signing a deal to join Premiership champions Saracens.

According to a Daily Mail report, the 27-year-old, who joined Stade Francais from Harlequins after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, will be back in the selection mix for England as he will be furthering his career with Saracens.

Can play in midfield or on the wing

Marchant, who is equally at home at outside centre or on the wing, initially signed for Stade Francais in 2022 when he saw little action in the England set-up under then-head coach Eddie Jones.

However, the 27-year-old’s situation changed in 2023 when Steve Borthwick replaced Jones, and the new England boss used Marchant more regularly in the international arena.

After missing out on selection for England during the 2022 Autumn Nations Series under Jones, Marchant was recalled to the Red Rose squad for last year’s Six Nations.

Marchant also played a key role in England’s Rugby World Cup campaign as he started in six of their seven matches en route to their third-place finish at the global showpiece.

By signing for Saracens, Marchant’s arrival will counterbalance the loss of former England captain Owen Farrell, who is joining fellow Parisian outfit Racing 92 at the start of the 2024/25 season.

Joins several English players in France

Farrell will join fellow England internationals Henry Arundell (Racing 92), Jack Nowell (La Rochelle), Jack Willis (Toulouse) and David Ribbans (Touon), who are all currently at French clubs. Meanwhile, Lewis Ludlam and Kyle Sinckler are also set to switch to Top 14 sides for next season.

Marchant is an experienced campaigner who had spent eight years at Harlequins before moving to Stade Francais. He also had a short stint with the Blues in Super Rugby in 2020.

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