Saracens have brought popular centre Rodd Penney back from Italy.

The versatile back left the Men in Black last September when he moved to Aironi but he has now rejoined the Premiership club.

The New Zealand-born player spent four years at Vicarage Road and his return is a boost for Sarries' depleted backline. Injuries and international call-ups have reduced their options and Penney is set to make his comeback on Saturday in the LV= Cup at the Scarlets.

Director of rugby Mark McCall said: “We’re delighted to have Rodd back with us. He knows our systems inside out and has quickly settled back into the team.”