Andy Farrell will retire at the end of season and take up a coaching role with Saracens.

The former Wigan and Great Britain rugby league star has decided to call time on his playing career after 18 years of professional rugby at the highest level.

Farrell was lured across to union by then England coach Andy Robinson four years ago but his development in his new code has been stunted by a series of injuries ranging from a broken toe to whiplash suffered in a car crash.

Despite his misfortune, the 16 stone centre still claimed eight England caps and says he wouldn't change a thing.

He said: "People keep asking me if I've got regrets but I have absolutely none. There were people who wondered why I changed codes four years ago. But I have had 18 fantastic years with Wigan, Great Britain, Saracens and England.

"It was capped by playing in a World Cup, which I never thought would happen."

Farrell, who won the Rugby League Challenge Cup as a 17-year-old with Wigan, will join a new-look Saracens coaching team next season alongside South African director of rugby Brendan Venter, who replaces Eddie Jones.

Sarries chief executive Edward Griffiths yesterday issued a statement denying suggestions he is trying to turn the club into a South African enclave and is backing Venter to turn the club's fortunes around and finally challenge for silverware.

Farrell will turn 34 next month and is ready to start a new chapter in his rugby life, despite the uncertainty and ill-feeling currently surrounding the club.

He said: "My mind is as sharp as ever but my body is telling me it is time to swap the shorts for a tracksuit.

"I've always had an interest in coaching and this is an opportunity I find genuinely exciting."