Wood and Harlequins flanker Chris Robshaw are thought to be the front-runners to replace retired former skipper Lewis Moody when interim coach Stuart Lancaster names his RBS 6 Nations squad on Wednesday.

Dowson, the former Newcastle captain, has formed a formidable partnership with Wood in the Saints back row and has seen up close and personal what he has to offer on and off the pitch.

And while the 25-year-old is yet to nail down a starting spot in a Red Rose shirt, Dowson insists the former Worcester flanker will have no hesitations taking on the armband.

“Tom is a very important player for us and I can see him captaining England,” said Dowson. “He's definitely got leadership qualities.

“He speaks very well to the players and is always full-on and first up to get involved. I think he'd be a tremendous leader.

“All the analysis is done by players. In terms of game plan, video analysis and presentations it's all player-led, obviously with the coaches' overview. 

“So were Tom to be appointed I wouldn't see it being too big a step up for him at all.”