Former England scrumhalf Dewi Morris has expressed surprise at Jason Robinson's recall to the national set-up.

The Sale Sharks fullback quit international rugby in September 2005 but England coach Brian Ashton has coaxed him out of retirement.

But Morris believes Robinson is not the player he was when England won the World Cup in 2003.

"On current form I would have to say he would not be an instant in my squad. He has lacked a little bit of zip," he told Sky Sports.

"He hasn't scored many tries for Sale but given the right space and time I think he could still be a force.

The uncapped Saracens centre Andy Farrell, who controversially switched codes in March 2005 but has struggled with injuries since, has also been named in England's Six Nations squad.

Morris believes picking the 31-year-old lacks foresight and if he does not impress early on his international rugby union career may be short.

"I thought Brian Ashton would have gone for a bit more youth. If Andy Farrell does not get stuck in and do the right things in the right places on the pitch he won't be around for long."

The new captain, Phil Vickery, has paid a glowing tribute to his predecessor Martin Corry.

The 30-year-old Wasps prop boasts a perfect record as England skipper, having been at the helm for victories over Argentina in 2002 and World Cup opponents Uruguay 16 months later.

But Vickery, who has recovered from three career-stalling back operations, is now braced for his toughest challenge: he inherits a side reeling from eight defeats in its last nine Test matches.

Typically though, his first thoughts were for Leicester number eight Corry, whose 14 Tests in charge included a number of demoralising defeats, culminating with losses to Argentina and South Africa at Twickenham.

Vickery said: "Everyone knows what a fantastic guy Martin Corry is. He led from the front in a tough autumn when he was getting a lot of stick, and I feel very privileged to follow him."

But it is no surprise Ashton has turned to a player who regularly inspires those around him.

Ashton said: "Phil is a player of massive experience who has been at the top of the world, and he has a great desire to lead England back there again.

"He showed in the autumn that he is back playing international rugby well, and both as a player and a captain, he is the right man to take England forward.

"During the autumn, Martin Corry handled the captaincy situation really well in what was a difficult period, and I thank him for that.

"He is still a vital member of the senior elite player squad, and we will be looking to him for support and advice in what will be a very challenging year."