James Anderson and Stuart Broad say Joe Root is perfect for England captaincy

England bowlers James Anderson and Stuart Broad have given their full support to new Test captain Joe Root, describing him as "perfect" for the job.

Root was appointed captain last month after Alastair Cook relinquished the role after five years - and 59 Tests - in the role.

The Yorkshire batsman will lead England against South Africa and West Indies this summer before the Ashes in Australia and both Anderson and Broad expect the 26-year-old to seamlessly make the step up from vice-captain.

"I think he's got a great opportunity. He has inherited a great team, a good young team as well," said Anderson.

"He has done a good job with the vice-captaincy, he has had a lot of experience under Alastair Cook.

"Cook will still be playing for the Test side so he will be there to guide Joe through and I am sure he will do a fantastic job.

"Essentially, it is the same team who have been together for the last 18 months - two years.

"It is just about Joe putting his own stamp on the team, I am sure it will be a seamless transition."

Broad added: "I think Joe is the perfect man for the job.

"He's our best batsman in the team, he's got a lot of experience now, over 50 Test matches, and we have got an exciting year ahead.

"It seems the perfect time for Joe to take over and lead in his own way."

Before Root takes charge of the Test side there is the Champions Trophy in June and England's limited overs side have warmed up for a tournament they will host with a series win in the West Indies.

Broad said: "I think we have got a hugely exciting white ball team, we have got seven match-winners in that top order.

"There is so much power and excitement in that team, it makes us probably favourites for the Champions Trophy in our own conditions.

"I love watching this white ball team, the way they go about things."

Broad and Anderson also confirmed they are both preparing for pre-season tours with their counties ahead of a big year of Test cricket.

Broad said: "I am hoping to play the first game for Nottinghamshire on April 7.

"We go away on a pre-season trip to Barbados on Sunday for some warm weather training, which is quite nice!

"I'm excited about playing for Nottinghamshire and building up through the summer."

Anderson is England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker but has been hampered by injuries over the past few months.

He said: "I have been frustrated a little bit with injury over the last few months, I am trying to get myself fully fit.

"I am back with Lancashire, we go on pre-season tour next week to Dubai, then I'll start the season with them and just play it by ear a little bit.

"I will try to gain full fitness and get some overs under my belt before the July Test starts, and the Ashes in the winter is the big one for us."