Saracens sign Shane Byrne

Saracens have plugged the gap left by Raphael Ibanez’s exit with the signing of Lions hooker Shane Byrne from Leinster.

The Guinness Premiership club finalised the details today after Ireland front row Byrne – who started the first Lions Test against the All Blacks 11 days ago - agreed a two-year contract.

Saracens head coach Steve Diamond said: “Shane is a world-class player. We’ve been looking to strengthen our forwards as we are now competing in Europe next season and he has a huge amount of experience in the Heineken Cup.

“Our coach, Mike Ford, has an excellent knowledge of the player from his time with Ireland and we are delighted that Shane has joined us.

“He’s very good in the set piece and excellent in defence, having proved himself at the highest level of the game.”

Byrne, 33, has won 38 caps since making his international debut in 2001 and would have accumulated more had it not been for the presence of Ireland talisman Keith Wood who was an automatic selection for the number two jersey.

Saracens were forced to recruit a new hooker after veteran France front row Ibanez requested early release from his contract.