Saracens receive Mako Vunipola boost ahead of Champions Cup final against Leinster

Saracens have received a much-needed boost ahead of their European Champions Cup final against Leinster to be played in Newcastle on Saturday with England international Mako Vunipola declared fit.

The 28-year-old was troubled by an ankle injury that hampered his participation during the Six Nations tournament earlier this year and suffered another setback after featuring in 63 minutes during the Champions Cup semi-final win over Munster that forced him to miss the Gallagher Premiership encounters against Wasps and Exeter Chiefs.

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall confirmed that Vunipola will be available for selection for the all-important game against Leinster though there is uncertainty over Michael Rhodes, who is sidelined with a back injury.

"Mako looks good and has come through training very well. We fully expect him to be playing," McCall said.

"Michael Rhodes has a stiff back so we'll make a decision later in the week about him.

"Other than that we're OK, everyone else is fit and well."

The two teams last met during the quarter-final at Aviva Stadium during the 2018 edition which Leinster went on to win 30-19 and the Irish side took a step further to beat Racing 92 15-12 in the final to clinch the Championship.