Andy Farrell has quit as Saracens first-team coach in order to return to the national team set-up.

Farrell helped England boss Stuart Lancaster during this year's Six Nations tournament, but opted not to join the national coaching staff full-time when Lancaster was officially appointed.

However, Farrell now appears to have performed a U-turn and quit from his post as Saracens' first-team coach, according to The Times.

The decision leaves the door open for a return to the England set-up ahead of their summer tour to South Africa if Saracens decide not to make him serve his six-month notice period.

Farrell is thought to have a good relationship with the England players, including his son Owen who has become an integral part of Lancaster's new-look side.

Farrell will be replaced at Saracens by coach Kevin Sorrell, with a statement on the club's website reading: "Kevin is making a swift and successful transition from outstanding player to outstanding coach. He is Saracens through and through, and we are delighted he has agreed to take up this important post.

"We are sorry to see Andy leave, and we wish him well in the future."

Farrell had been in charge at Saracens since 2010, being promoted from his role as skills coach.