Former skipper Robshaw ready to back Saints star Hartley during Six Nations

And the former skipper has vowed to give his full backing to Hartley during the Six Nations.

Hartley is set to lead England out against Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday, having been handed the captaincy by new head coach Eddie Jones last week.

The Saints hooker has 66 caps to his name and is seen to give his country the edge they were lacking during the disastrous World Cup campaign.

Robshaw was captain as the Red Rose bowed out at the pool stages and after being relieved of his role, he is now ready to back Hartley to the hilt.

“I fully understand the reasons for the captaincy change and respect Eddie for his choice and will support Dylan as well as possible,” Robshaw said.

“For me now it is about being part of the team, doing my bit for the team whatever that may be and supporting Dylan.

“It is interesting to look back over the past four years. I’m extremely proud that I’ve had the opportunity to captain England.

“Of course it didn’t always go our way and there were a couple of mistakes along the way.

“I’m not proud of how the World Cup turned out but I’m extremely proud to have captained this country.”