BILLY VUNIPOLA believes he has spotted a future Saracens captain in rising second-rower Maro Itoje.

The youngster has picked up two trophies so far this season, skippering Sarries to the A League and LV= Cup titles.

There could yet be more silverware, too, with the senior team in the mix for the Premiership title, while Itoje, 20, has been shortlisted for the Land Rover Discovery of the Season award.

He is up against Exeter Chiefs duo Jack Nowell and Henry Slade, as well as Harlequins’ Jack Clifford and Elliot Daly of Wasps, with the winner to be announced on Wednesday.

Vunipola, who won the award last year, believes Itoje – a Junior World Cup winning captain with England – has certainly led by example this year.

“I think Maro has got a very good chance of winning,” he said. “Everything he touches this season seems to turn to gold but he can carry it off. He is a very humble guy despite his age.

“He just goes about his business and doesn’t let anything bother him. I’d say his sheer determination is his biggest strength.

“He doesn’t shy away from anything and the way he has led by example this year has been great.

“One thing that Saracens will do is put faith in their younger players. They’ve backed him with the captaincy in the A-league and LV=Cup and he has thrived with it.

“Long may he continue like that. I definitely see him as a future Saracens captain, although only after me!”

Vunipola could also be pocketing individual silverware this week after seeing himself nominated for the Aviva Premiership Rugby Player of the season award.

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