Wilkinson 'will overcome injury'

Wilkinson injured his neck and shoulder during the Lions tour of New Zealand this summer and has also lost his role as the Falcons joint skipper.

"Jonny is fit and raring to go," said Andrew. "He will start the season for us, no question whatsoever.

"I have decided to appoint Colin Charvis as captain as Jonny just needs to focus on his own game."

Wilkinson has been plagued by injury since kicking England to glory in the World Cup final back in November 2003.

He missed most of the 2004/05 season but played his way into contention just in time to be selected for the Lions tour.

The fly-half played in the first Test but suffered a "stinger" injury, a nerve problem associated with shoulder and neck injuries, during the second international against the All Blacks.

I can honestly say we haven't had a single problem with Colin Charvis Newcastle boss Rob Andrew

There were fears that he would be out for another lengthy period, but Andrew added: "He's back training after a week on holiday and will tour Japan with the team in two weeks."

Charvis, who joined Newcastle last summer, will take over from joint captains Wilkinson and Ian Peel.

The 32-year-old Welsh back rower enjoyed an impressive first season at Kingston Park and was voted player of the season.

"We do have a lot of senior players with great experience at the club who would have made great captains," said Andrew.

"But this wasn't actually such a difficult choice because Colin wants it so badly and he is so well equipped to do the job.

"He has been nothing short of sensational since he joined us last year.

"People who don't know him well said at the time that he was trouble, that he was bad with the press and all that sort of stuff, but I can honestly say we haven't had a single problem with him.

"Jonny might not agree with me because he doesn't like not doing things, but he will still have his piece and will be a big part of our future success here, as will Ian."