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Borthwick handed captaincy rival's support
Rugby Union, 10:57, January 21, 2010 ,
Nick Easter says he is flattered at being touted as a future England captain but has backed Steve Borthwick to continue in the role.
Speculation over Borthwick's future in the role came into question recently when England head coach Martin Johnson refused to confirm whether the Saracens captain would lead the country for the upcoming RBS Six Nations campaign, which kicks off against Wales on February 6 at Twickenham.
Johnson appears to be keeping his cards close to his chest as Borthwick, who has been captain for every one of the head coach's 14 games in charge, is in danger of losing his place in the starting XV due to the emergence of Northampton lock Courtney Lawes this season.
Harlequins' number eight Easter has since been mooted as a potential replacement captain but while he is flattered by the prospect, he insists he is fully behind Borthwick.
"It is flattering that people think of you in that light but I would give Steve my backing for the captaincy," he told Press Association Sport.
"Steve is a tremendous captain. He brings so much intensity and professionalism to every training session.
"When he says something he isn't just saying it for the sake of it.
"He was under pressure in the autumn but we didn't have many players available. We just lost to New Zealand and beat Argentina in the last two games.
"Steve played some of his best rugby for England in the last two games as well.
"He has been captaining Sarries well this season. They've been there or thereabouts at the top of the league and I think he's a natural leader."