Leader.

He might not be the most popular of players in Britain and Ireland but England captain Owen Farrell certainly is amongst his fellow Lions.

The 29-year-old linked up with the squad yesterday after leading Saracens back to the Premiership on Sunday and has already had a huge role within the camp bestowed upon him.

Speaking to assembled media today following his team announcement this morning, Warren Gatland revealed that the players held a vote on administration day to determine who would head up their leadership group while on tour.

And Farrell, who has been named on the bench for this weekend’s game against Japan, topped the polls.

“We did that and I thought it was interesting that Owen [Farrell] ended up with the most votes out of anyone,” Gatland said.

“That speaks volumes for the respect he is held in by the other players in the group, not just the England players, but a number of other players too.

“The chat was that it wasn’t the greatest Six Nations for him, but we have picked him on the leadership and experience he can bring to the group.

“He is a fantastic competitor. What he has achieved already in the game and the success he has achieved speaks for itself.

“Knowing him as a competitor, he will go out and make the most of his opportunities and I am expecting him to have a great tour.”