Saracens lock Steve Borthwick has been appointed England captain by new team manager Martin Johnson. Borthwick, 29, takes the reins on a full-time basis from Phil Vickery having stood in as captain for England's ill-fated summer tour to New Zealand.

England face a demanding autumn international schedule, with Tests against the Pacific Islands, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.

Johnson said: "Firstly, I'd like to thank Phil Vickery for everything he did for the team while he was captain.

"Like Phil, Steve is a good leader and always prepares thoroughly for all his matches at club and international level and I'm looking forward to working with him.

"I won't be giving Steve a specific amount of time in the job. I just want to support him as much as possible and I know he will enjoy all the responsibility and work that comes with being captain of England."