England centre Brad Barritt says that Saracens will use their European Champions Cup semi-final heartache as “a galvanising force” during the domestic season run-in.

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Seven days after bowing out of Europe following a gripping clash against French heavyweights Clermont Auvergne in Saint-Etienne, Saracens head to Milton Keynes today for an appointment with long-time Premiership leaders Northampton at stadium:mk.

Victory for Saints would confirm qualification for next month’s title play-offs, but Saracens can move to within striking distance of Northampton if they claim only a second win from the last six Premiership starts against their fierce rivals.

“This group is extremely ambitious,” said Barritt, who signed a new long-term contract with Saracens earlier this week. “And we have used last weekend’s disappointment as a galvanising force for the rest of the season.

“There is obviously a Premiership title to play for, and it starts this Saturday against Northampton, who are formidable opponents. We relish the challenge, and we are looking to bounce back after last Saturday’s result.” 

Meanwhile, Leicester, one place and three points outside the playoff zone, could climb back into the top four if they claim an expected five-point maximum against hapless Welford Road visitors London Welsh today.

And seventh-placed Sale Sharks can afford no slip-ups against AJ Bell Stadium visitors Harlequins if they want to keep the heat on topsix rivals Wasps.

Elsewhere today, Gloucester host Newcastle, while tomorrow’s Premiership action sees a key clash between Wasps and Exeter.