By Bryn Palmer

Robinson has a dilemma on his hands with Wilkinson injured

Andy Robinson thought he'd made one of the biggest decisions of his fledgling England reign when he named Jonny Wilkinson as captain three weeks ago.

But with the World Cup hero unlikely to be fit in time to face Canada on 13 November, the new coach must now contemplate selecting another leader.

Nine months ago, when Sir Clive Woodward was pondering who should succeed Martin Johnson, there was no shortage of contenders.

Scrum V message board: Who do you back to take over?

Now, with Lawrence Dallaglio joining Johnson and Neil Back in Test retirement, Richard Hill injured and Matt Dawson axed, the candidates are not so obvious.

BBC Sport assesses who might captain the side in Wilkinson's anticipated absence.

Mike Tindall

Age: 26 Caps: 38 Position: Centre

Had his detractors in the early part of his Test career, but has long since proved his value to the England cause.

His royal romance has attracted more column inches than his midfield muscularity since England's World Cup triumph, but he is an almost certain starter if fit.

Injuries have dogged him again this season, with questions remaining over his current form.

Lack of captaincy experience could count against him, but a smart bet with Robinson keen for leaders who will be around in 2007.

Phil Vickery

Age: 28 Caps: 43 Position: Prop

The only contender who has captained England before, having led an under-strength side to victory in Argentina in 2002, and the rout of Uruguay at last year's World Cup.

Gloucester's "Raging Bull" was often praised by Sir Clive Woodward for his no-frills leadership qualities, and is a first choice when fit.

Vickery has only just returned to action after six months out with back trouble and may be left to concentrate on his own form early into his comeback.

But Robinson watched him playing for Gloucester in Paris at the weekend and he is a strong contender if the coach opts for a forward as captain.

Jason Robinson

Age: 30 Caps: 33 Position: Full-back

One of the few guaranteed his place in the side, and commands the respect of team-mates and opposition alike.

After missing the disastrous summer tour down under to recharge his batteries, "Billy Whizz" has captained Sale to second place in the Premiership this season.

Quietly-spoken off the field but fiercely competitive on it, where he provides a natural lead with his mesmerising counter-attacks from deep.

Instinctive style may be hindered by too many tactical considerations, but another strong short-term alternative.

Steve Borthwick

Age: 25 Caps: 13 Position: Lock

A surprise candidate to many perhaps, but touted by his club coach John Connolly as the ideal man to take on the job.

Borthwick has impressed when standing in as Bath captain and is consistently impressive in the Premiership.

But has to prove he has the presence required in the Test arena, where he has yet to cement a regular place.

May play a leading role in the line-out though if he gets a starting spot ahead of Ben Kay.

Will Greenwood

Age: 32 Caps: 52 Position: Centre

Popular profile and ease in front of the media could make him an attractive candidate if restored to the side.

A player of undoubted class who could play the old hand role outside a less experienced fly-half, probably Charlie Hodgson.

But after being left at home during the summer, Greenwood will need to convince Robinson the competitive fires still burn fiercely.

Unlikely to be around in 2007, but another good short-term alternative.