Itoje compliments Mark McCall's impact at Saracens

Saracens lock Maro Itoje has complimented head coach Mark McCall for his exceptional work with the players and has attributed him for the club's recent success.

Saracens were recently crowned as the European Rugby Champions Cup winners after defeating Racing 92 by 9-21 at Grand Stade de Lyon.

Itoje acknowledge his good fortune to be a part of a 'special team' built by McCall.

"He's a brilliant man-manager, he knows how to get the best out of his players.

"He knows what boxes to tick, he manages his coaches well, he understands the club, he understands what the players need.

"He prepares us unbelievably well each week without fail.

"He's a very experienced coach and he's been doing this for quite a while now.

"And I think his efforts are paying dividends.

"I'm fortunate to be part of a special team I think.

"They are not only special players but magnificent people, who front up every week.

"They work unbelievably hard every week without fail, it's been a long old season with no breaks, it's been pretty consistent over the last year or so.

"And the coaches have been unbelievable with the way they've prepared the team, and the passion and care they have shown for the players."

The 21-year-old England international, who recently won the under-23 player of the season accolade at the Premiership end-of-season awards, downplayed the impact they have on his motivation.

"Individual awards or praise, that's not what motivates me.

"My motivation is to be part of a successful team, a team that continues to grow continually and consistently, and can compete for the highest honours.

"We move quite quickly past things at the club, whether it's an upset or a success we're quite quick to move onto the next job.

"Last weekend already feels quite a long time ago.

"So now we're very focused this week to put our best foot forward.

"We all know we're taking nothing for granted.

"You only have to look at Leicester's team sheet to see the quality they have in their team.

"They have phenomenal players, they are extremely well coached and they are a great side, so we know it's not going to be easy.

"It's going to be a dogfight for 80 minutes, but I think it's a challenge that we're prepared for."

Defending Premiership champions Saracens are due to host Leicester Tigers in Saturday's league semi-final clash at Allianz Park.