THERE were no surprises when Saracens announced the arrival of French fly-half Alain Penaud last

week.

The 28-year-old, currently with European champions Brive, agreed a three year deal with the

Southgate club but will not officially play until next season when current No.10 Michael Lynagh

hangs up his boots.

Player-coach Francois Pienaar was delighted that he had finally got his man. He said: I had

meetings with players all over Europe but our first choice was always Alain. We felt that he fitted

well into our game plan.

Penaud has already proved himself on a world stage, playing a big role in Brives two Heineken

European Cup victories and also as part of the French national side.

But he recently lost the French No.10 jersey to Tomas Castaignede, the breathtaking genius behind

Frances Five Nations Grand Slam this year.

Penaud hopes his move to London might help him to regain his place. It is like taking a second

breath coming here and I am hopeful that I will be able to resurrect my international career as a

result, he said.

The fee that Saracens will be paying for Penauds services been kept under wraps but there is

allegedly more money in the bank to spend on players.

Director of rugby Mark Evans said: We will be making another announcement very soon.

l Saracens crunch league game with Newcastle on April 19 is not sold out contrary to some reports.

Tickets are still available by calling the ticket hotline on 01923 496009.

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