Saracens reveal Maro Itoje injury update ahead of the weekend

"I thought I’d be able to beat him for speed, on physical prowess alone. But I couldn’t get anywhere close. Not only was he technically brilliant but it was also the intelligence of how he called, found space and manipulated opponents.”

The 26-year-old was forced off early in the second half last Sunday at Bath, worryingly clutching his shoulder.

Despite being concerned post-match, McCall revealed today that: “He is fine,”

“It’s a very minor shoulder injury and it is not a problem.

"He will play this weekend. He was good (against Bath).

"It is always difficult when you haven’t played in a while and it is your first game of the season but as first games of the season go, I thought he was good.”

 Itoje said: ”

For me it’s always those quick guys you can’t quite get a hold of that give me the most trouble for sure. I’m not sure if I’ve played him this year but Piutau is a real handful.”

Itoje said: "I’ve got a lot of respect and admiration for Alun Wyn, I always prefer having him as a teammate than going up against him. It's sad that I likely won't play with him again now."