Brad Barritt has been named as the new captain of European and English champions Saracens.

The 29-year-old fulfilled the role for much of last season, steering his club to a memorable double in the absence of injured skipper Alistair Hargreaves.

The England international centre has now been handed the captaincy on a full-time basis having made 171 appearances for the club since joining in 2008.

"He is ideally qualified to be our captain," Sarries director of rugby Mark McCall is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"Brad is someone who leads through example - through his actions, attitude and application. He is one of the most competitive players I have ever come across.

"He stepped into the captaincy role last season in Alistair's absence with real aplomb."

Saracens will begin the defence of their Premiership crown against Worcester Warriors on Saturday, September 3, while they will have to overcome Toulon, Sale and Scarlets in the group stages of the Champions Cup.