Quins stand-in skipper Chris Robshaw has told back row star Tom Guest his club needs him as he ponders his Stoop future.

The 25-year-old number eight is in the final year of his current deal and was in sparkling form in Sunday’s draw with Llanelli Scarlets in the LV Cup.

Guest has largely played second fiddle to England’s Nick Easter for most of this season, but has the chance to cement a starting slot with his rival sidelined after suffering a calf injury against Worcester Warriors.

England star Ugo Monye has suggested the academy graduate would be a regular starter elsewhere in the Premiership, and Brown reckons he must stay if the club need is to realise its domestic and European ambitions.

“It is great to have another number eight who you don’t have to worry about and who can step in and do better than just do a job, but excel in that position,” he said.

“He is definitely a great player and one we want to be here. I’m not too sure of Guesty’s situation, but he is definitely a player you want at your club.”

Robshaw has taken over leadership duties at the Stoop in the absence of injured openside Will Skinner and England number eight Nick Easter - presiding over draws with London Irish and Llanelli Scarlets from his two games at the helm.

Last season’s Guinness Premiership player of the year put in an all action display in the loose take a lead in the ball carrying department, but couldn’t get his side over the winning line at the weekend.

But while the 23-year-old concedes he has plenty to learn, he is hoping he can at least hand back the armband with the squad in fine fettle.

“As a captain you want to lead by example . The players who came in at the weekend did well, but when you are missing key players others have got to step up and take responsibility,” he added.

“I like to help with that and hopefully the other players can step up and share the work load.

“It is a great honour to be captain of your club. I know a couple of injuries has brought it about, but I’m relishing the opportunity.

“Obviously I’ll be glad to see Will and Nick back, but I’m going to try and make the most of it. Hopefully, I can have an unbeaten run and do a good job while they are away.

“I’m sure I’ve got a lot to learn, but hopefully I can take this experience and learn some more from them when they are back.”