HUGH VYVYAN expects Richard Hill to still have an influence at Saracens this season, despite the knee injury which is likely to rule the decorated back-row forward out for the rest of the campaign.

"It's tragic news for him," said the captain. "He's such a great player and has such an influence on the team that it's real blow to lose him. But he's not the type of guy to go away for six months and come back when he is fit. He's going to be at the training ground, helping us out and giving us advice as that's the sort of guy he is. He'll be helping me out, helping the back row out and be there for advice."

Vyvyan looked much more at home in his preferred position of number eight against Northampton on Sunday and played a vital role in the uplifting victory.

"It was a big win for us. We know we haven't played well in the last two weeks and the players are to blame for that. We had a tough week, got torn apart by the coaching team which is exactly the right thing and I think we came out and played with a lot of passion, particularly in the defence which won us the game.

"We just need to build from here," he continued. "We are under no illusions though, this was by no means a flawless performance and we have plenty to work on. There are not going to be any thrills from us. We are just going to play simple rugby and hopefully that is the winning formula."

To read Vyvyan's thoughts on his return to his former club Newcastle this weekend, don't miss Friday's edition of the Watford Observer.