Probyn backs Dallaglio appointment

Former England prop Jeff Probyn insists that Lawrence Dallaglio was the only player who could possibly “fill the shoes” of retired skipper Martin Johnson.

Dallaglio was unveiled as England’s new captain earlier today as Clive Woodward named his provisional squad for the forthcoming RBS 6 Nations campaign.

And while Probyn – who appeared in the 1991 World Cup final – admits Johnson is an “impossible” act to follow, he feels Dallaglio was the best man to face the challenge.

“Clive’s decision is no surprise because Lawrence is the best candidate for the job. He’s done it before and has lots of experience, as a player and captain,” he said.

“England need a period of stability in terms of leadership and Lawrence will provide that. He is an inspirational figure on and off the field.

“Replacing someone like Martin is impossible but the only player who could fill his shoes is Lawrence.

“They have different styles – Martin led my example by throwing himself into everything. He was a very physical player and let that do the talking while Lawrence is more verbal.

“Woodward wants a second Grand Slam so he’s picked the best man for the job in the short term.”

Probyn was not quite so complimentary about one of Dallaglio’s rivals for the captaincy, describing veteran flanker Neil Back as “past his sell-by date”.

“I saw Neil was touted as one of the candidates for the job but I found that surprising as he was past his sell-by date before the World Cup,” he said.

“I think Clive is being very sentimental in picking him – openside is a young man’s position. He’s been a great servant to the team but he’s not at his best.

“There are a few options open to Clive and I would go for one of the younger players such as Lewis Moody, Jamie Forrester and Alex Sanderson.”

Probyn believes that goalkicking ace Jonny Wilkinson should take over the captaincy eventually – provided he is switched to centre.

“For Jonny to kick, captain and play fly-half would be too much responsibility, but by moving him outside you take away some of the playmaking duties,” he said.

“I believe with his defence he might be a better inside centre anyway, and it would allow a player like Charlie Hodgson to fit into the team.

“But who knows? James Simpson-Daniel at Gloucester is touted as one of the most gifted players around so he could slot in at fly-half as well.

“I would like to see Phil Vickery given a proper chance sometime but his injury problems have been very restrictive – he’s played as many games as he’s missed.

“I’ve seen doubts raised over Vickery’s ability to captain because he’s a prop. But the game is so well organised now that the skipper is nothing more than a figurehead.

“He doesn’t actually have to make many decision any more, other than at the toss. Everything else is taken out of his hands.”