Darren Campbell helping out at Saracens

Saracens aim to be quick out the blocks when the new Aviva Premiership season gets underway thanks to Olympic gold medalist Darren Campbell.

Campbell, part of the British 4x100m relay team that won gold in Athens in 2004, is to work with the English champions throughout the 2011/12 season to help develop the power and speed of the squad.

He said: “My job is just to try and sprinkle some magic dust and get that little bit more out of the players, especially those coming back from long-term injuries.

“Over the last few years I’ve gained more knowledge of rugby and know that speed and explosive power has become a lot more important. Any difference that I can make here would be absolutely fantastic. The coaches here are very knowledgeable and it’s a fantastic set-up and a fantastic club – I’ve been very impressed with what I’ve seen.”

The former European and Commonwealth Games champion took his first session with the squad at Old Albanians on Monday and he will return at regular intervals throughout the season.

Saracens High Performance Director Scott Murphy said: “For us to get to the next level in the Premiership and Europe, we feel we need to develop our power and speed and we want to tap into Darren’s knowledge and enthusiasm to drive us to that level. He joins us with a terrific track record and will be a valuable resource for the club.”