Exeter v Saracens: Mark McCall proud of unity in salary-cap breaking era

Isn’t McCall tempted to see if more silverware and a second golden age is in the pipeline?

“No, you need a certain strength to do this job and sometimes, I’ve realized that even though it’s okay, (my) team doesn’t need it,” he said.

“I think the team needs the new energy they’re going to get from (incoming director of rugby) Brendan (Venter).”

McCall said his goodbyes at the Stonex Stadium after last Saturday’s win over Harlequins. “A lot of fuss” is how he characteristically, but affectionately, describes the Guard of Honor and Goodbye dressing room., outsider

McCall’s legacy is more than trophies, though. A touch of young coaches have come out of his wings to take jobs elsewhere.

Paul Gustard, currently at Stade Francais, is all flying in the top 14 along with Cell boss Alex Sanderson and England head coach Steve Borthwick.

As he steps out of the hot seat, he wants to see more support for those who follow him and stay in his wake.

“It’s a great job, but it’s not like any other job, it can make you feel self-doubt, make you insecure. Sometimes the loss can be hard to bear,” he said.

“I learned how to deal with it, but young coaches need more support.

“There’s a toll on the job, and I can see that toll on a younger coach sometimes.”

McCall is carrying that pressure, purpose and privilege for the final time. If he can hold on to a seventh premiership title, it could be the sweetest win of the lot.