Mark McCall hails "wonderful" Steve Borthwick

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall has paid tribute to Steve Borthwick following the veteran lock's retirement from professional rugby.

Borthwick was moments away from winning the Aviva Premiership title in his final game with Sarries on Saturday before Northampton Saints clinched a dramatic 24-20 victory at Twickenham Stadium.

Despite the 34-year-old going out on a losing note, McCall believes that Borthwick has done himself proud during his 16-year career.

"It's irrelevant in a way that he couldn't finish with a trophy because he's just been such an extraordinary ambassador for the sport," McCall is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"He's been a wonderful player and captain for Bath, and a wonderful player and captain for us. He's been a huge part of the progress we've made in the last five seasons.

"Did he deserve better at Twickenham? Probably, but he won't complain about it because that's not in his nature."

Borthwick, who won 57 caps for England, is due to become an assistant coach with the Japan national team.