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Jack Singleton admits Saracens' 35-point deduction was "a bit of a shock"

The England international is determined to help his new club overcome their problems.

Jack Singleton was shocked to find out Saracens are facing a 35-point deduction and a fine of over £5million but is itching to help his new team keep silencing their critics.

The England international moved back to Allianz Park this summer after spending the last few seasons with rival Gallagher Premiership side Worcester.

He only got to link up with his new team-mates last week, after being with England at the World Cup in Japan.

Not long after returning from the World Cup Jack Singleton found out Saracens faced a 35-point deduction
Not long after returning from the World Cup, Jack Singleton found out Saracens faced a 35-point deduction (Steven Paston/PA)

Not long after Singleton landed home, news broke that Saracens had been in breach of the salary cap for the last three seasons and are now facing a hefty punishment if any appeal against the penalty is not successful.

The former Sarries academy player got to make his debut in the victory at Gloucester on Sunday and is determined to help them be successful again after they won the Premiership and Heineken Champions Cup last season.

"It was a bit of a shock, but after the World Cup, where I didn't play much, I was itching to get back and start playing and fit in with a new team. It didn't really bother me massively, I just wanted to focus on the (Gloucester) game and ripping in with the squad," Singleton said.

"The record of the club speaks for itself with the amount of trophies they have won in previous years and winning trophies is the best thing you can do in sport.

Saracens start their defence of the Champions Cup against Racing 92
Saracens start their defence of the Champions Cup against Racing 92 (David Davies/PA)

"When I got the opportunity to come here, that was at the forefront of my mind. I want to come here, win and hopefully kick on with a fantastic squad."

Singleton agreed his move back to Saracens in April and would have expected to join a team looking to remain at the top echelons in this country and in Europe.

But if Mark McCall's men are hit with a 35-point deduction, they would have to face up to the prospect of a relegation battle.

Former Worcester hooker Singleton has plenty of experience in that department at his old club, although he is focusing on the positives of his switch and delighted to get the chance to feature in the Champions Cup on Sunday.

Saracens will kick off Pool Four and the defence of their European crown with a tough clash away to Racing 92.

New Saracens team-mate Jamie George was a big help to Singleton at the World Cup
New Saracens team-mate Jamie George was a big help to Singleton at the World Cup (David Davies/PA)

"I have only been here a week, but you can tell how tight-knit this team really is," Singleton said.

"We don't know what the future holds so we have to focus on what is next for us and that's Racing in the Champions Cup.

"It's a massive test and this is another reason why I wanted to join a club like Saracens, to play in these European games. What a place to play, Racing in their new stadium."

Hooker Singleton will be competing with England team-mate Jamie George at Allianz Park but praised his club colleague.

"Jamie is a great guy and even while on camp, he has helped me develop as a player," he said.

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Saracens head coach Mark McCall pictured on May 11, 2019
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