Alex Goode: Saracens stalwart set for 400th appearance

Alex Goode believes his competitive nature has been a key factor in his longevity.

The full-back, 37, is set to make his 400th appearance for Saracens in Saturday’s Premiership match against Newcastle (15:00 BST).

Goode, who has played 21 times for England, joined Sarries’ academy in 2006 and has been at the club for his entire career, aside from a season on loan at Japanese side NEC Green Rockets.

“I think the love of the game plays a big part,” Goode told BBC Radio London.

“I love rugby. I love being out there. I love competition. The want to win and finding a way to win – I love to win and be part of that competition. That’s really helped me.

“I do look after myself well. I do prepare well and always try improve and make sure I don’t stand still.

“I constantly keep working at my kicking, my balls, my speed, my strength, my passing, offloading, short kicking – never sit still, because otherwise you just get found out.

“Constantly evolving and having different layers to my game has probably helped me stay in it as long as possible.

“That competitiveness, want to win and love for the game have probably been the keys.”

Goode has enjoyed huge success at the London club, winning six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups.

In 2019 he was named European Player of the Year.

But there have been low points as well – not least when Saracens were relegated from the top flight in 2020, having been deducted 35 points following persistent salary cap breaches.

That led to Goode’s move to Japan and he returned after Sarries were promoted back to the Premiership.