Maro Itoje to be sidelined following knee injury

It has been confirmed that Maro Itoje will be sidelined for a number of weeks after suffering a knee injury.

The 24-year-old took a knock whilst on international duty with England and scans have revealed a chip in his patella.

Meanwhile, Mako Vunipola has recovered from his calf strain and will start for Saracens against Cardiff Blues on Sunday.

Director of Rugby Mark McCall confirmed George Kruis (calf) is another week away while Billy Vunipola (arm) is estimated to back for Rounds 11-12 of the Premiership.

Liam Williams (hamstring), David Strettle (foot), Hisa Sasagi (groin), Hayden Thompson-Stringer (hamstring) and Duncan Taylor (knee) are the club’s other injury absentees.