Mark McCall to take Saracens break on health grounds

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall is to take a short break from his role on medical grounds.

Former Ireland international and Ulster coach McCall has been in charge at the club for the past decade, masterminding five Gallagher Premiership titles and three European crowns.

"People will always come first at our club and Mark will be given all of the support and time he needs," a Saracens statement read.

"People will always come first at our club and Mark will be given all of the support and time he needs.

"Meanwhile, we would ask that everyone respects Mark's privacy. Mark is obviously more than confident in the coaching team he has worked with for many years to temporarily take the reins."

McCall remained at the helm throughout the salary cap scandal that saw Saracens relegated to the Championship for the 2020-21 season.

Saracens sit second in the Premiership table and could still qualify for the knockout phase of the Challenge Cup.