Saracens have finally put an end to the persistent speculation surrounding the signing of the French prop Christian Califano, by confirming his place in the squad for next season.

The arrival of Califano, who has spent the past season in New Zealand with the Auckland Blues, on a lucrative three-year deal has been shrouded in controversy even since it was announced.

Toulouse, Califano's former club, vehemently claimed the player was contracted to them until 2005 and were even rumoured to have threatened Saracens and the player with legal action.

The speculation intensified even further last week after Califano failed to attend a press conference at Vicarage Road on Thursday, June 6, but he was given special dispensation to return home for family reasons

"He was going to be here but unfortunately his mother is very ill and he is not due to commence his contract until July 1st, so we are giving him grace to be at home," revealed Saracens' chief executive Peter Deakin.

"His clearance and registration is all here and in house and lodged with the RFU. They are making noises but that's what they do these people. He has been quoted in international rugby magazines as looking forward to coming and playing over here."

Said Sarries' managing director Tim Lawler:

"If there was an argument to answer we would have been sued by now, his agent would have been sued by now and Califano would be stated as a Toulouse player, but he isn't.

"I think it's just a bit of mis-communication between the club and the player that we are not part of. He will be a man in black next season and the RFU have already registered him to play here next season."

Califano has won 65 caps for France and has won five French titles, and a European Cup in 1996, with Toulouse after joining the club from Toulon in 1992.

June 10, 2002 15:00