US lock Smith returns to Saracens from NFL

Australian-born American international second row forward Hayden Smith has returned to leading English rugby union club Saracens after spending 18 months with the New York Jets in the NFL. As a tight-end, Smith made six appearances in the US National Football League but is returning to the London club where he played between 2008-12. "It's fantastic to be back," said the lock capped 18 times by the United States. "I learned a huge amount in the NFL, various elements that will help me become a better rugby player, but there is nothing like the Saracens environment and I am now completely focused on working hard and helping the squad achieve all our goals." Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall added: "Hayden is a phenomenal athlete with huge potential, and it's great to have him back in the fold." Source: AFP