 |  People have this perception that as a captain you give these huge Shakespearian speeches |
World Cup winner Martin Johnson has backed Martin Corry's appointment as England captain against Italy. Johnson believes his Leicester team-mate is the ideal candidate to replace Jason Robinson, who will miss the 12 March match with a thumb injury.
"When Jason got injured I knew he (Corry) would be the main contender, I'm happy for him," said Johnson.
"He's a solid citizen, the kind of man you want in a tight situation, especially on your side."
Corry has been one of England's most consistent performers with his impressive displays at number eight in England's lacklustre Six Nations campiagn.
His form is made the more remarkable considering he spent the first six weeks of the year on the sidelines with a dislocated elbow.
"'Coz' has done things on the field that have been inspirational," said Johnson.
"He dislocated his left elbow against Gloucester (on 2 January). I saw him in the physio's room and all he wanted to do was get back on that field again.
"He didn't want to give away a grimace because he didn't want the rest of the boys to see him in pain.
"That's the type of bloke he is."
 Johnson believes his Tigers team-mate can handle the pressure |
Johnson has plenty of experience leading from the front, having inspired England to victory in the World Cup final as well as the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2003.
And the 34-year-old is confident Corry will be able to cope with the pressure of leading England out at Twickenham on 12 March.
"People get wrapped up in the glory and honour of captaincy, but it's not so great when you're not winning," said Johnson.
"People have this perception that as a captain you give these huge Shakespearian speeches.
"But the speeches are only part of it, there's a whole load of other things to do.
"With the job comes the expectation, it's natural but he will be able to handle it."
MMIX
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