JONNY WILKINSON claimed a second consecutive European Cup crown in his final game on British soil on Saturday.

But the Englishman was quick to highlight the “incredible” contribution of Matt Giteau in Toulon’s victory over Saracens.

World Cup winner Wilkinson landed 13 points with the boot at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium yet felt it was the performance of centre Giteau that was pivotal to the 23-6 win.

The fly-half, who turned 35 yesterday, will end his 17-year career with Toulon’s Top 14 final against Castres next weekend.

“Matt’s individual contributions to the game were incredible, all the way through,” said Wilkinson. “He’s a damn good player who can just about do everything, and he’s the reason why someone like me realises my time is up.

“You look at him doing what he does, and you think that’s where the future of this team is. I certainly want to see him flourish, he’s been an inspiration to me, and I know he will be to this team in the future.”

Wilkinson will move straight into Toulon’s backroom staff as kicking and skills coach once he retires this summer.

The nerveless fly-half’s haul of points on Saturday afternoon included a trademark drop-goal off his weaker right foot as Toulon retained their European title.

Giteau’s stubbed chip caught Alex Goode cold to allow Drew Mitchell to claim the loose ball and return the favour, with the Wallabies midfielder ghosting home for the game’s first try.

Juan Smith grabbed the decisive score after the break, with Saracens never able to generate their usual rhythm or power.

Saracens rugby director Mark McCall backed his team to show the resolve required to shake off the defeat and challenge for the Premiership title in Saturday’s Twickenham final against Northampton.