Dowson will be assisted by newly-appointed vice captain Jamie Noon, the 28-year-old England centre who scored ten tries in 21 club outings this season.

Director of rugby, John Fletcher, said: “We have an outstanding natural leader in Phil, who has demonstrated all the qualities needed to excel in a captaincy role.

“Despite having two serious injuries in the last two seasons his attitude and conduct has been exemplary. As well as being a top player he is also a very inspirational figure within the squad, and despite his relatively tender age at only 25 I firmly believe he is ready to take the step up and lead this club forward.”

Dowson, who has made 74 appearances for the Falcons, said: “I'm honoured to have been asked to captain the club, and it is a position I take extremely seriously.

“It's no secret that the last two seasons have been immensely frustrating from a personal standpoint, but I have remained positive and am totally committed to helping this Falcons squad achieve its enormous potential.

“There are exciting things going on behind the scenes at the club right now with a special group of players and coaches all pulling in the same direction, and I truly believe that will be reflected in the team's performance during the coming season.”

With Noon installed as vice captain, Fletcher said: “Phil and Jamie are both exciting English players who have come through our academy system, and they reflect our belief in where this club is going.

“They are fortunate to have such fantastic senior professionals to work alongside, like Matthew Burke, Joe McDonnell, Jonny Wilkinson and Carl Hayman, who like all of the players will continue to have a valuable input on and off the field.”