The Message Board may be interested in some facts.
1. Brendan Venter, the incoming Director of Rugby, met with each of the players, one after the other, on Monday.
2. He wanted to explain his plans for next season, openly and honestly, and to end any uncertainty.
3. Many of the players were enthused and excited by what they heard; inevitably, some were disappointed.
4. It would be completely inappropriate for the club to make any specific comment on these private meetings.
5. Clearly, every supporter will have their own view on who should play and who should not. Everybody has their own favourites, However, in any sporting organisation, it can only be the view of the coach or Director of Rugby that counts, In the England rugby team, that is Martin Johnson's view. In the Saracens team this season, it is Eddie Jones' view. In the Saracens team for next season, it is Brendan Venter's view. There is no other way.
6. Some will question why these decisions have been made in February, and not at the end of the season. Other clubs may choose to adjust their squads in April or May. Our logic is that, by being open and honest in February, we afford the affected players a realistic chance of finding a new club. Selfishly, the club could have waited until the end of the season, but most clubs will have finalised their 09/10 squads by then and, in all probability, the affected players would be left high and dry.
7. The club is already working with the various players' agents and the PRA to assist in securing their futures, and, without exception, the club will act decently and honestly.
8. This has been a difficult week, but the reality is that Saracens is not immune to the economic realities being faced by many companies across the country.
9. The club has complete confidence the professionalism and commitment of its current squad, and looks forward to a strong end to the season, under Eddie Jones.
Thank you for your support.
Edward[/b]
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