BBC Rugby Union News: Fergus Burke Aims to Emulate Saracens Legend Farrell
Fergus Burke is eager to fulfill his international ambitions by successfully stepping into the sizable shoes of departing Saracens icon Owen Farrell. The 24-year-old playmaker has been recruited by the London club to replace the former England captain, who is set to join Racing 92 in France.
Having served as an understudy to All Blacks fly-half Richie Mo’unga at the Canterbury Crusaders, Burke arrives in north London with an impressive pedigree. Though he has represented New Zealand’s under-20 side, the versatile back has set his sights on playing for either England or Scotland, with both options available through his English mother and Scottish grandfather.
“I have big ambitions to play international rugby,” Burke said. “First thing’s first, I need to come over here and play well for Saracens, and whatever happens in that space happens. It’s exciting.”
Inspired by the success of fellow Kiwis like Wales’ Taine Plumtree and England’s Ethan Roots and Chandler Cunningham-South, who have thrived after leaving New Zealand, Burke is eager to make his mark in the Gallagher Premiership.
“It’s a different challenge and I am looking forward to it,” he said. “You look at Ethan Roots and Chandler and boys like that. It’s exciting.”
While acknowledging the daunting task of replacing a modern great in Farrell, who has been instrumental in Saracens’ six Premiership and three European title triumphs, Burke is confident in his ability to carve his own path.
“I’m my own player, but I have ultimate respect for what Owen’s done at Saracens and he will probably go down as the greatest ever,” Burke said. “It’s awesome and I’m looking forward to joining the club.”
With Farrell’s departure, Burke will have the chance to make the Saracens No. 10 jersey his own, and he is determined to seize the opportunity to showcase his talent and potentially earn international recognition.
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