SARACENS' chief-executive Francois Pienaar is looking to act swiftly to fill the void in the front row left by the injury to Romain Magellan.

Magellan, signed from Grenoble in the summer, is expected to be out of action for up to six months after undergoing surgery to remove a bulging disc in his back.

"We are still searching for a tight-head prop, we have a player in mind and we will let you when know things become clearer," said Pienaar.

Conscious of the his inexperienced but talented front row, Pienaar had contacted former Scotland and Lions prop Paul Burnell but felt that he lack his lack of fitness and the time taken to learn the style of play would not be worthwhile in the context of a short-term deal.

As a result, Pienaar is looking to recruit someone on a permanent basis.

October 2, 2001 11:01

Kevin Affleck