England rugby’s newest star Maro Itoje has extended his stay at Saracens by signing a new contract.

The deal will see the former Harpenden St George’s schoolboy and Harpenden Rugby Club junior remain at Allianz Park until 2019.

England team-mate George Kruis has also signed a deal with the club, who train at Woollams, the home of Old Albanian Rugby Club.

Speaking on www.saracens.com, Itoje said: “I’m extremely lucky to call Sarries home and I’m delighted to extend my contract for three more years.

“It was an easy decision from the outset, as I’ve really enjoyed my rugby so far and I’m incredibly grateful for the help and guidance I have received since arriving at the club as a 14-year-old.

“The club is hugely ambitious and has been competing at the highest level for some time. As a player you want to be playing in the big games, and once again we are well placed in both the Aviva Premiership and European Champions Cup this season.

“It’s a special club to play for and I’m really happy to be staying.”

Saracens’ director of rugby Mark McCall said: “We are extremely happy that Maro and George have committed their futures to the Club.

“Both are part of a core group of players who have progressed from the Academy to establish themselves as key players within the squad.

“They have been in superb form this season for both club and country, they are only going to get better and better, and we’re excited about them doing it here at Saracens.

“Maro’s progress over the last few seasons has been phenomenal.

“He’s experienced a number of big games for the club already, has played for England and is still only 21-year-old, which is incredibly exciting.”