Barritt backing the new boys

BRAD Barritt won the Champions Cup three times with Saracens and believes the club are on course to be a powerhouse in the competition again.

-  PAUL REES

Victory over Castres at the StoneX Stadium this afternoon would set up Sarries for a home draw in the last 16.

"It is a transition year for Sarries," said Barritt, who was the club's captain each year they won the Champions Cup and he was part of a Premiership winning team five times.

"The likes of Owen Farrell and the Vunipolas left big shoes to fill, players who were outstanding for England as well as Saracens.

"Now there are new players putting their stamp on things with Fergus Burke and Tom Willis particularly impressive in recent weeks. There is more consistency and you can see the confidence growing.

"Castres were super impressive against the Bulls last weekend and there is all to play for. Saracens have a fantastic home record, particularly against the French clubs."

Barritt spent 12 years at Saracens before retiring in 2020, winning 26 England caps. He believes that England turning to the club for their captain for a third successive team is testimony to the way the club nurtures and looks after players.