Jason Leonard is on the verge of his 100th cap

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has described Jason Leonard as English rugby's "greatest hero" after the prop was selected for his 100th cap.

Leonard joins Australia's David Campese and Philippe Sella of France as rugby union's only international centurions.

The Harlequins forward, who gained his first cap against Argentina in 1990, will start in his usual loosehead role in Saturday's match against France.

And Wilkinson has spoken of his admiration for Leonard's ability to remain at the top of his sport for so long.

"For a player, any player, let alone a prop to achieve 100 caps is a massive achievement," Wilkinson wrote in his exclusive column.

"All that and he's never missed an opportunity to walk out in an England shirt through injury. It's a record that is unlikely to ever be bettered.

He's renowned throughout the squad as someone who's always got a story to tell Wilkinson on Leonard

"I don't think he'll mind me calling him a hero. It's tough playing in the front-row, because the fans often overlook the work that's put in.

"But he is certainly one of the great heroes of the English game."

Fellow looseheads Trevor Woodman and David Flatman have both been sidelined by injury, but Leonard was in top form during the autumn internationals.

And Wilkinson is certain the 34-year-old will cause France problems in the set-piece.

"Jason may not be known as a scrummager, but you don't get to play 100 internationals if you have any inherent weaknesses," Wilkinson said.

"To have a player of his calibre to call on must be a delight for the management.

"He's renowned throughout the squad as someone who's always welcoming and he's always got a story to tell.

"He's given the game a lot over the years and there's no doubt it will be a massive blow, both to England and rugby in general, when he finally decides to hang up his boots."