Saracens have been handed an unexpected boost with Steve Borthwick fit to return for the Guinness Premiership final against Leicester Tigers tomorrow.

The England lock has been missing since March after suffering tendinitis in his knee but he has recovered in time for Sarries’ first Premiership final.

More than 80,000 supporters are expected at Twickenham for the game as Saracens attempt to win their first trophy since the Tetley's Bitter Cup in 1998.

Sarries' director of rugby Brendan Venter said: "We've got Steve back for the game which we feel is fantastic having a world class lock back in the mix. I do have concerns but he trained really well and with a world class player like Steve, the overiding thing was I've got a special rugby player out there.

"Ernst Joubert will keep the captaincy because Steve might not last the full 80. It was a decision made between Steve, Ernst and myself and I think it will work well. We're very very happy to have Steve Borthwick back. It's difficult for Tom [Ryder] and Mouritz [Botha] explaining to them but they were fantastic and it will be good for the team.

"He [Borthwick] spoke to me last week and said he's come through and I said if you can train last week at full pace and have no problems then we will consider you for selection. When I sat with the coaches the overwhelming feeling was having a real world class player available we would be crazy not using him."