The Scotsman

Farrell a great fit for Racing, says Russell

- Duncan Bech

Finn Russell believes Owen Farrell will be the ideal fit for Racing 92 as England's fly-half follows in the footsteps of his 2021 Lions team-mate.

Farrell will become ineligible for England selection until 2026 after agreeing a two-year deal that will bring an end to his trophylade­n time at Saracens, his only profession­al club.

The move to Paris next season will reunite the 32-year-old with Stuart Lancaster, Racing's head coach who gave Farrell his England debut in 2012.

Russell spent five years with the Top 14 leaders before joining Bath after the World Cup and the Scotland playmaker, speaking before Racing confirmed the move on Monday, is backing Farrell to make it a success.

"I loved my time in Paris," Russell said at the premiere of Netflix's Six Nations: Full Contact documentar­y series. "It's really close to London so it will be easy for him to go backwards and forwards to his family.

"I don't know what it's like under Stuart Lancaster and it will potentiall­y be better for Owen with Stuart being there. The two of them will know each other.

"It's a great club and a great city to live in. I loved my time there. Owen will be great, he will fit the way they are playing just now really well. Everyone views him as a kicking 10 but he's got a great attacking game as well. He will be great for them."

Turning his attention to Scotland, Russell is hoping for a decent Six Nations. "We've got great strength in depth in the squad now and we potentiall­y have the chance to win something, but we've had that for the last few years and we haven't managed it," he said.

 ?? ?? Owen Farrell: France switch
Owen Farrell: France switch

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