Leinster have the highest profile Champions Cup quarter-final as they host defending champions Saracens in a sold-out Lansdowne Road on Sunday.

England fly-half Owen Farrell will be seeking his own redemption having been outplayed by Leinster’s playmaker Johnny Sexton in the Six Nations clash at Twickenham two weeks ago.

With so much at stake, we take a look at three key battles which could decide the outcome.

TADHG FURLONG V MAKO VUNIPOLA

Vunipola was one of England’s leading lights during a disappointing Six Nations campaign, and it is hoped his recent solid form will be transferred on to European stage against an in-form Leinster side. A devastating performer in the loose, the Saracens man will come up against the best No3 in the world in Furlong. The imposing Leinster player may have the edge in the scrum, but he’ll need plenty of assistance from his pack to get the upper hand on a dominant Sarries forward unit.

JAMES RYAN V MARO ITOJE

Two quality players and it can be argued Ryan (21) is where Itoje (23) was at two years ago in terms of his composure and influence at an early stage of his professional career. Itoje came under scrutiny during the Six Nations, but remained a solid presence for Eddie Jones struggling side. A natural leader, he is a future Saracens and England captain. In Ryan, Leinster have an extremely influential figure who possesses a voracious work-rate and brings immense physicality to the contest.

JOHNNY SEXTON V OWEN FARRELL

Question marks hang over Farrell’s match fitness but even at 75 per cent his on-field presence is a threat to opposition. Both him and Sexton are similar players – feisty and intelligent. Sexton and Farrell are among the top three fly-halfs in the game behind undisputed leader Beauden Barrett. Although the Leinster star’s kicking has been off colour, he can still cause serious damage with ball in hand. Will be central to Sunday’s result.