A redeemed Quade Cooper was speechless after Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie named him a shock vice-captain for this weekend’s Cook Cup rugby clash with England.

Cooper has been elevated to the deputy role just 13 months after branding the Wallabies environment “toxic” under Robbie Deans.

The 25-year-old missed the mid-year British and Irish Lions series and was also benched by McKenzie for the opening two Bledisloe Cup Tests after the August coaching handover.

But his former Reds mentor has now handed him the leadership honour for the start of the European tour after being impressed with his team-first attitude.

Cooper said he was completely surprised by the appointment after Ben Mowen was also given a shock promotion and James Horwill dumped as skipper.

“I was a bit speechless, I didn’t know what to say,” the five-eighth said on Thursday morning.

“There was a great deal of happiness

“To get that vice-captaincy next to my name is something I see as being pretty special but I’m just going to concentrate on doing the best job I can for the team within my role at No.10.”

Cooper felt his ascension was a great reward for hard work and turning his focus on being a better team man.

“For me it’s just a recognition of my off-field work and setting an example moving forward as well to continue to work as ward as possible on and off the field and be a good team player.”

McKenzie said: “Were recognising Quade for the decision-making role he plays on the field and the positive involvements he continues to make in contributing to the culture of the team off the field.”