Greenwood hails Wilkinson as leader

WILL GREENWOOD yesterday welcomed Jonny Wilkinson’s appointment as England captain and predicted the Newcastle fly-half would emulate Martin Johnson’s uncompromising style of leadership.

Wilkinson was unveiled as Lawrence Dallaglio’s successor by England caretaker coach Andy Robinson on Monday and will take charge for the autumn internationals against Canada, Australia and South Africa.

The 25-year-old faces an enormous challenge if he is to restore English fortunes following a dramatic post-World Cup slump and will be aiming to conclude a run of four successive defeats against Canada.