Farrell retained the captaincy despite his St Helens rival being tipped to fill the role following a fantastic season for the Super League champions.

But Sculthorpe is adamant that the Wigan star, who became the country's youngest skipper at 21, deserves to remain at the helm.

"There was never any doubt in my mind that Andy would captain the side," said the 2001 and 2002 Man of Steel.

"He is a great captain and leads by example. Why take it away from him?"

Sculthorpe has also played down speculation that he is set to take Farrell's loose forward spot in the GB Test team.

"It does not matter whether I play at stand-off or loose forward, it is not going to change the way I play," said the 25-year-old.

"At the end of the day, whatever is best for the team is best for either me or Andy."