Steve Borthwick was today appointed England captain by team manager Martin Johnson.

The Saracens lock fought off competition from Wasps pair Phil Vickery and Tom Rees to retain the armband he wore during the ill-fated tour to New Zealand this summer.

Borthwick will lead England against the Pacific Islanders at Twickenham a week on Saturday before taking on Australia, South Africa and New Zealand on successive weekends.

Vickery, who led England to the World Cup Final last year, is understood to have been overlooked because of the outstanding form of Bath prop Matt Stevens.

Stevens looks to have made the tight-head position his own, meaning Vickery is likely to have to settle for a place among the reserves.

Johnson said: “I'd like to thank Phil 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 work that comes with being captain.”