James Tirrell has returned to the UAE for a week-long coaching role with Abu Dhabi Saracens, although club chairman Dave Jackson admitted it could lead to a more permanent placement.

Sarries have begun preparations for the rugby sevens season in earnest by bringing back Tirrell after a successful stint with the UAE Premiership team last season.

Tirrell, a development and academy coach with Aviva Premiership side Saracens, acted as the UAE affiliate’s interim player/coach between January and April this year.

Chairman Jackson is delighted to welcome him back.

“Jimmy is coming over for a week to help coach the boys ahead of the Dubai Sevens and impart some of his vast knowledge,” said Jackson.

“We had hoped to keep Jimmy last season as a development officer. He was here from January to April and helped coach the lads.”

Jackson revealed that Tirrell, a former player for Sarries in the UK, is also on a scouting mission.

“He’s also coming out to see if there are any Sarries players here that could have a shot with the club in the UK as he is part of the club’s development pathway programme. It’s a way to continue to grow the link between the clubs.”

He added: “He has worked as a community coach but will be focusing on sevens while he’s here as he’s a bit of a sevens specialist and has very good knowledge of the game.”

Abu Dhabi Harlequins beat Dubai Hurricanes in the Premiership final at the weekend and Sarries helped to get their city neighbours to the final. The Al Ghazal men beat last year’s champions Jebel Ali Dragons, and Jackson said the duo are flying the flag for the capital.

“Rugby in the UAE is heavily influenced by Dubai teams so Abu Dhabi rugby is on the up,” said Jackson.

He didn’t rule out a permanent offer for Tirrell to join the coaching staff.