close
close
msilood

Saracens make emergency signing after losing Louie Johnson until 2025

Matte Jr
Saracens make emergency signing after losing Louie Johnson until 2025

Saracens have signed former Harlequins and Newcastle Falcons fly-half Tim Swiel on a short-term deal as cover for Louie Johnson, who has been ruled out for three months with a torn biceps.

Johnson arrived at the StoneX Stadium from Newcastle as one of two centre-back signings Saracens made over the summer, alongside Fergus Burke, as the London side entered their post-Owen Farrell era.

With the Premiership Rugby Cup starting in November, the versatile Swiel, capable of playing at fullback and wing-back, has come to boost Saracens’ stock with a handful of defensive players on international duty.

Video Spacer

Video Spacer

Louis Rees-Zammit – Walk the Talk Trailer | RPTV

Wales goalkeeping wizard Louis Rees-Zammit joins Jim Hamilton for an exclusive chat about life in the NFL. Watch the full program on RugbyPass TV

Watch now

Since leaving Newcastle in 2020, England-born and South African-raised Swiel has had spells in South Africa, Japan and Scotland but trained with Saracens last season where he proved a popular figure, according to the director of rugby Mark McCall.

Meanwhile, Johnson recently underwent surgery on his left arm following the injury.

Calendar

Gallagher Premier League

Saracens

Leicester

“Tim was a very popular member of the group when he trained with us last year so we are delighted to have him back,” McCall said after signing the 31-year-old.

“His experience will be valuable to the younger players and we are excited to see him lead the group throughout the World Cup calendar.”

Swiel added: “I’m really pleased to be back here at Saracens. After training with them at the end of last season I could see how much quality there is within the group and I am looking forward to playing my role in this new-look squad.”

Related Posts