Saracens arrive in Reading just one point adrift of the title play-off zone, having won four from their last six league matches, while they are also firmly on course for a European Challenge Cup quarterfinal place.

Smith said: "We will be facing an in-form Saracens. Alan Gaffney has worked his magic on a talented squad of players.

"Wherever you look, there is real class from fullback through the backs to the tight five and backrow. We are expecting as tough a game as any we have played all season, and know we will have to be at our best to secure any points."