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Rugby Union

Wilkinson eying England captaincy

06/08/2008

Newcastle Falcons fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has said it would be an "honour" to be named as England captain.

Manager Martin Johnson has yet no announce who will be given the role on a full-time basis after replacing Brian Ashton following this year's Six Nations tournament.

Lock forward Steve Borthwick captained the side on an interim basis during the tour of New Zealand this summer but Wilkinson hops to get the role full-time.

The fly-half says the characteristics of the players in the squad are what attracts him to the role.

Wilkinson told Sky Sports News: "That is a team you would look at and say immediately it would be an honour for anyone to lead.

"England rugby has always been - regardless whether it is the era as World Cup winners, finishing second or being knocked out in the quarter-finals as we were in 1999 - a team full of promise, incredible work-rate, belief, effort, collective respect and trust. With all those values, captaining the side is an absolute joy."

Wilkinson has captained England before, but his opportunities to lead out the side have been curtailed by injuries in recent years.

The 29-year-old was named as captain when Johnson retired in 2003 but was unable to fulfil the role.

Wilkinson says he is sure whoever is given the job for the future will have no hesitation in accepting the challenge.

He added: "It is one of those things where whoever is asked I'm sure will be overjoyed. I don't know too many people who have been asked to captain England and turned it down."