Saracens boss admits: Six Nations has hit us hard

Saracens boss Mark McCall admits the Six Nations has undermined his side’s Premiership title chances after they were replaced at the top of the table on Sunday.

But he has expressed his pride as Sarries’ England stars helped the Red Rose to win the Grand Slam – and he is looking forward to having them back in his team.

Owen Farrell, Mako Vunipola, Billy Vunipola, Maro Itoje and George Kruis all started for the national team as Saturday’s victory in France completed a perfect Six Nations campaign.

But Saracens lost 21-13 away against Leicester, allowing Exeter to leapfrog them and claim top spot.

“The Six Nations has hit us hard but we’re very, very proud of our players. All of them have been integral to it,” said McCall.

“It hasn’t been an easy period for us and everyone knows we’ve been stretched. Next week it will be great as it will be the first time in nine weeks we’ll have some choices.”