With the three-time winners to be relegated from the Gallagher Premiership at the end of the season, the 22-year-old confirmed that a fourth European Cup is their main aim for this campaign.

“With what’s gone on, our focus shifts to Europe,” he said after being named Heineken Man of the Match in Sarries’ dramatic Round 6 win over Racing 92 at Allianz Park last Sunday. “We’re going after that now and we know we’re going to be a tough team to beat.

“That second 40 [minutes] is everything this club is about. There have been a few obstacles this season, but we knew we had to do our talking on the pitch.”

Earl’s comments were backed up by England squad colleague Maro Itoje, who scored two tries in Saracens’ 27-24 victory over the Pool 4 winners.

“We want to go out there and win this competition,” the British and Irish Lions lock told Sarries TV+. “I think we’re one step closer to doing that.”

Itoje added that he was “hugely proud” and “absolutely chuffed” that the London club had emerged triumphant in their make-or-break Pool 4 game.

“Being a Saracens player means a lot to me,” he explained. “The club is a great club. I love this club. Especially the week we’ve had, it’s nice to get a positive result.

“Obviously, having the red card in the first half was a big blow, but I think this game really showed our resilience and how tough this team really is.”

Saracens flanker Ben Earl has revealed that the English club will be now be concentrating on retaining the Heineken Champions Cup, after the defending champions reached the quarter-finals for the ninth season in a row at the weekend.