Billy Vunipola says he is 'definitely staying' at Saracens despite Premiership relegation

England number eight Billy Vunipola says he is "definitely staying" at Saracens and hopes to help the crisis-hit club secure an immediate return to the Premiership.

The reigning champions will drop into the Championship at the end of this season after being automatically relegated for breaching salary cap rules.

But back row forward Vunipola remains committed to the club despite being unsure how playing in the second tier will affect his international career.

He told RugbyPass: "I'm definitely staying. The way I see, it's part of the journey of the club.

"From my point of view, I'm just trying to sit still and play it out, see where we end up next year.

"I can't see a negative in it. I've haven't spoken directly to the powers at the top, when it comes to England or at Sarries, as to what will happen in terms of international recognition.

"I'm excited for next year. I reckon I'll play as much as I can, try to help the team as much as possible and hopefully we'll come straight back up.

"Some boys have had to try and further their careers, as they are at the start of their careers. I'm kind of in the middle of it.

"Boys are in different situations, and I can understand that. They've got families and things to look after."

Saracens' impending demotion has been delayed due to the league being suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Asked if he had had his head turned by the lure of Japan, France or Super Rugby, Vunipola said: "No, not really.

"The club have looked after me, and not just me, my family. It's time for me to dig my heels in and scrap with the boys and hopefully come up next year."

Vunipola has won 51 international caps but missed England's recent Six Nations matches due to a broken arm.

The 27-year-old, who has been plagued by similar injuries, hopes dropping down a division may give his body chance to fully recover.

"If there's one positive to take out of it, I hope that my body will take less of a battering," he admitted.

"With no disrespect to the Championship, it will give my body a chance to heal. I don't think they play as many games in the Championship. They don't have Champions Cup or those big games."