Alex Goode's Saracens split lasts just 3 months

Club legend Alex Goode has returned to Saracens in a part-time coaching capacity only three months after retiring as a player.

The 37-year-old stepped away from playing duties at the end of last season after a 17-year professional career but has in short order been appointed as a specialist coach for the 2025/26 campaign.

Goode, Saracens’ record appearance maker with more than 400 games, will work with the club’s senior backs and academy players across the season. He began his new role at the start of pre-season.

Director of rugby Mark McCall said Goode’s presence would be an asset as the club continues to integrate younger players into the senior environment.

“Alex has been an outstanding servant to the club and is one of the most intelligent players to have worn the Saracens shirt,” McCall said. “His understanding of the game, leadership qualities, and ability to connect with people will mean he has a great impact in his new role.”

Goode said: “After being here for almost 20 years it was always going to be difficult to walk away entirely! I’m very grateful to the club for this opportunity and excited to work with such a talented group.”

The appointment comes just 11 weeks after Goode’s retirement was confirmed following a career that delivered six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups. He was named European Player of the Year in 2019 and represented England on 21 occasions, including as part of the 2015 Rugby World Cup squad.