Saracens full-back Alex Goode insists the return of British & Irish Lion Brad Barritt from injury is the perfect boost ahead of a busy fixture list for the Premiership table toppers.
England centre Barritt has returned ahead of schedule from ankle surgery and makes his first start in 15 weeks against Gloucester Rugby at Kingsholm this weekend.
Barritt joins up with an in-form Sarries who have still only lost once in the league all season and already look guaranteed a play-off berth come the end of the season with a 16-point gap to fifth-placed Leicester Tigers.
Barritt was called up to the Lions tour this summer as injury cover and started the tour games against both the Brumbies and the Melbourne Rebels.
And with a crucial European Cup double header up next for Mark McCall’s side, Barritt’s return could not be better timed.
“Brad has done fantastically well to come back ahead of schedule,” said Goode.
“He’s a fantastic player who does wonderful things for our team.
“Obviously at Sarries we are all about our squad and everyone contributing but to have someone of Brad’s qualities back is a huge boost.
“Everyone sees what he gives to the team from a defensive point of view week in, week out and we are lucky to have him.”
