Lancaster is due to be interviewed for the permanent post this week, along with former South Africa and Italy coach Nick Mallett.

After a disappointing World Cup, Lancaster revitalised England during the Six Nations, leading them to victories over Scotland, Italy, France and Ireland with a narrow defeat to Wales the only blemish on their record.

And Rowntree, the only coach to survive from previous manager Martin Johnson’s tenure, insists Lancaster has done enough to earn the job full time.

“Stuart has dragged us out of the gutter," said Rowntree. "I don't want anything to change. You can't argue with what he's done.

“On Saturday night after the official dinner we went back to the hotel and had a cracking night.

“But it was tinged with sadness because we felt emotionally the journey was coming to an end.

“I have never felt that before. I have always been ready for home.”

“My over-riding feeling is of pride - but there's a load more to come from this group of players and I'm dying to work with them again."