De Kock full of EDF Energy

Saracens captain Neil de Kock has revealed that they London club are aiming to win the EDF Energy Cup as they look to kick-start a golden era for the success starved club.

The Men in Black, as they are more affectionately known, face Leeds in their opening group game on Friday, with fixtures at home to Bristol and away to the Scarlets to complete their group games.

And de Kock is confident his side can emulate their EDF form of last season, two straight defeats to London Irish and Cardiff Blues, before e meaningless win over Wasps.

“Whatever competition we are in we take seriously, and the EDF is no different,” the South African told The Harrow Times.

“You are five wins away from winning a competition and we have to put everything into it.

“The players who are asked to do a job will do just that. It’s another route into Europe and is a competition every team takes seriously, some more than others. It’s one we want to win and get some silverware in the cabinet.”

Saracens have had their best start to the Guinness Premiership season for over eight years, and while elated with that start de Kock insists the cup competitions help to keep the season fresh.

“The cup is a welcome distraction to a point,” he added.

“One thing that the Guinness Premiership really does is prevent teams from experiencing monotony. The cup competitions breaks it up and it’s ideal from that perspective.

“There’s a lot of competition for places in all positions and the cup gives other guys the chance to step up and put a claim in for a starting spot.”

Saracens expect to have another South African, Brent Russell, back in action soon. The speedy back line player broke his collar bone in pre-season training but is back in training now.

“Brent is a good month away but he has started training with us,” said de Kock of his team-mate and friend.

“It’s nice for him to be part of the squad. He is a naturally fit player and is champing at the bit to get back in there. He can’t wait to play as it’s been a frustrating time for him.”