Smith played a key role in Graham Henry’s World Cup winning campaign with the All Blacks as attack coach and, although he has admitted he did not apply for the Red Rose’s hot-seat, he has been mooted as an ideal partner for Nick Mallet.

But England’s impressive RBS 6 Nations campaign and second-place finish has enhanced Lancaster’s credentials and Smith believes a successful union could be developed with either coach.

Both Mallet and Lancaster were interviewed by the RFU for the position this week and Smith, who built a strong reputation on English soil during a three-year spell with Northampton which ended in 2004, suggested he would also consider a return.

“Could I work with Lancaster? I don't know the man, I like where I am at the moment, but I respect what he has achieved,” said Smith.

“I have been asked, with reference to England, if a number of strong coaches can work together. It can work, but your beliefs and philosophies need to be aligned.”

Writing in his therugbysite.com blog, Smith revealed that he expected Lancaster to be offered the position and he believes forming a strategy to deal with southern-hemisphere sides will be crucial going forward.

“Stuart Lancaster has done a hell of a job in his short time,” he said.

“England have not played the best rugby in history, but they have come together as a team, built belief in each other and played with pride.

“But Lancaster will know that as far as England have come, they will have to keep improving if they are to compete with the southern hemisphere.

“They play South Africa four times, New Zealand, Australia and Fiji before the end of the year. They won't beat those sides just smashing the ball up. They will need an attacking strategy and they will need alignment with all the coaches and players.

“I assume Lancaster will now get the England job on what he has achieved so far.

“But it is win-win for England, because I also have huge respect for Nick Mallett's abilities. I await the puff of smoke with interest.”