Smith (left) will assist Henry

The England captain is aware Smith has inside knowledge of many of his team-mates after his time with Northampton.

"Wayne knows every England player well from his time there and knows the quality of our squad," Dallaglio said.

"He is sure to be pointing out the strengths and weakness of the various players to his guys."

Smith left the Saints after last month's Zurich Premiership semi-final defeat to Dallaglio's Wasps to take up his role as an assistant to new All Blacks coach Graham Henry.

Graham understands how other teams play and is very astute at being able to read their game plan Lawrence Dallaglio

The arrival of Smith - who held the New Zealand post himself before heading to Northampton - completed a coaching trio which will provide the home side with priceless insights into the modus operandi of Sir Clive Woodward 's squad.

Henry guided Wales and the Lions on their infamous 2001 tour of Australia, while Steve Hansen will look after the forwards following his stint in the Wales hotseat.

Dallaglio also had words of praise for the 57-year-old Henry, who he observed at close hand on the Lions tour .

"Technically Graham is excellent, he understands how other teams play and is very astute at being able to read or decipher the opposition game plan and ways to combat that," Dallaglio added.

Dallaglio insists England are "ready for the challenge"

"He will want to stamp his authority on the All Blacks but he knows how to pick the right team and that is the most important thing."

Dallaglio insists his players are not battle-weary despite the effects of a long season.

"I think battle-hardened rather than tired is a very apt description," he said.

"At the end of the day, we're professional players and I, for one, enjoy what I'm doing and try to play with a smile on my face.

"I have won 70 caps for England, but until last year I had never been to New Zealand, so it is superb to be back.

"There is something still very unique about a fixture with the All Blacks and we know whatever side Graham Henry picks will be a strong one.