Mark McCall has been appointed as the first-team coach at English club Saracens. McCall will work alongside new director of rugby Brendan Venter from the start of next season.

The 41-year-old former Ireland international, who resigned as Ulster coach in November 2007, is to become part of a Saracens coaching staff whose most recent addition was their current centre Andy Farrell.

“I am really excited about joining a club like Saracens and I can’t wait to start work,” said McCall, who has spent the past two seasons as assistant coach with French club Castres.

“Brendan is a strong character who knows exactly what he wants, and that is to be challenging for the Premiership title next season.”

Venter added: “Mark has a great understanding of the game and a wonderful ability to get the best out of players.

“He is also a natural competitor and that is exactly what we will need to be successful.”