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Saracens head coach Joe Shaw insisted Mara Itoje’s summer break had given him “new life” after watching England captain star in 30-7 win over Bristol.
Itoje was named man of the match in the Bears’ bonus-point Gallagher Prem defeat at the StoneX Stadium as he continues to benefit from sitting out the England tour in July.
The 31-year-old played on the flank instead of his usual second-row position and responded to the change of position with a high-energy performance full of defensive tackle.
Shaw said: “Maro has been amazing. England and the club have given him a new lease of life by giving him the summer off. It’s the first he’s had since he was 19.”
“He had a full pre-season with us. He was able to stay with his family and recover as he should from a long season where some things happened in his personal life.
“He’s fresh as a daisy. He’s training so well. His body is in good shape. It’s not only going to benefit us, it’s going to benefit England in the long run for the World Cup next year.”
Itoje was well supported by fellow campaigners Owen Farrell and Ben Earl, while Noah Caluori and Jack Bracken brought youthful energy to the wings, scoring a try each.
Shaw is backing Caluori and Bracken, who are both 20, to shine together for England in the future. Caluori made his Test debut on the July tour, while Bracken is uncapped.
“They’re great stars. We know Noah scores tries, he’s world class in the air and this was his first game since coming back,” Shaw said.
“Jack has something that scares everybody – electrifying pace. They’re shooters. They’re big men. They can beat people.”
“England are spoiled for choice with players from outside – as we are at our club – but why can’t they play for England? They are both great stars who could become superstars.”
Bristol Boss Pat Lam revealed he rested Pedro Rubiolo, AJ MacGinty and Steven Luatua for the trip to north London rather than risk injury on Saracens’ artificial pitch.
Lam said: “Last year they got big injuries and it wasn’t worth putting them on the field.
“If we had played a game at home or if it was a semi-final, they would have played.”