Investec Champions Cup: Five things to look out for in last-16

Saracens have opted to pursue domestic success over their continental ambitions this season.

The three-time Champions Cup winners have decided to rest several of their England internationals, including Maro Itoje and Tom Willis, for their trip to Toulon.

Director of rugby Mark McCall says he is prioritising making the Premiership play-offs over the chance at a fourth European crown.

Northampton Saints, meanwhile, are the only English side with a home tie after finishing top of Pool 3.

Saints are eighth in the Premiership table after enduring a dismal defence of their title, but Phil Dowson’s side will host Clermont in a welcome reprieve from their domestic campaign.

The visitors are sixth in France’s Top 14 table after their recent victory over La Rochelle ended a run of five consecutive league defeats.

Clermont booked their place in the knockout stages by snatching a dramatic 33-26 victory in the sixth minute of overtime to qualify at Bath and Bristol’s expense.

Elsewhere, Sale Sharks face a daunting trip to six-time winners and defending champions Toulouse, who will be without injured talisman Antoine Dupont after he ruptured cruciate ligaments in his knee during France’s Six Nations win over Ireland last month.

Harlequins face an equally difficult task at four-time winners Leinster, while Leicester Tigers travel north to take on Glasgow Warriors.