England international Owen Farrell has made himself unavailable for the Six Nations as he has decided to take a break from international rugby.

Farrell's club Saracens released a statement which stated that the fly-half made the decision 'in order to prioritise his and his family's mental well-being.'

The statement also confirmed that the 32-year-old would continue to play for the Gallagher Premiership champions and captain them.

Saracens said: "Owen Farrell has decided to take a break from international rugby in order to prioritise his and his family's mental well-being.

"This means he will not be available for selection for the 2024 Six Nations.

"He will continue to play for Saracens and captain the club.

"As always, Owen will have the full support of everyone at the club."

Farrell was made England captain in 2019 by then coach Eddie Jones and made his international debut in 2012, going on to win 112 caps and score 1,237 points for his country.

He captained England at the 2019 and 2023 World Cup tournaments and has also featured on three British and Irish Lions tours.

England head coach Steve Borthwick said: "Everyone at England Rugby is fully behind Owen's decision.

"Since making his debut, he has been an integral part of the England set-up for over a decade, and the demands on elite athletes are extremely challenging.

"He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all for his country.

"It is with typical courage that Owen has made this decision to open up in this manner.

"Together with all of us at England Rugby, I will do everything I can to ensure that he has the support he requires going forward."

England finished third at the World Cup, and their next game is a Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on February 3. George Ford and Marcus Smith could be among the leading contenders to fill the number 10 shirt left vacant by Farrell's absence.