Timely boost.

Lions playmaker Owen Farrell will return for defending champions Saracens in their Champions Cup opener this weekend against Premiership rivals Northampton.

Farrell was a late withdrawal from the Saracens squad that comfortably defeated Wasps on Sunday because of a calf problem. But he has now made a full recovery and should start the weekend.

In other injury news for Sarries, South African duo Schalk Burger and Schalk Brits could also be back for the clash at Franklin’s Gardens.

Owen has trained for two days and is fine. Schalk Burger and Schalk Brits have a chance of being available on Saturday,’ director of rugby Mark McCall said.

‘For Brits it will be soon after having his appendix out, so that would be a decent turn around. He trained today (Wednesday) and if he has no reaction he has a great chance of being involved.‘

[PA Sport]