Sam Warburton looks set to captain the Lions for the second tour in a row.
The Wales flanker, who impressed in this year's Six Nations, despite losing the captaincy to Alun Wyn Jones has been the overwhelming favourite to lead Warren Gatland's side to New Zealand.
With over six weeks to go to the opening match, the captain will be in attendance in London on Wednesday afternoon as the squad is named.
A leaked photo has been released on social media in recent hours showing Warburton taking part in a photoshoot with Gatland, tour manager John Spencer and various members of the backroom team, including Ireland coach Andy Farrell.
Warburton captain confirmed..... #LionsNZ2017 (possibly!) #leaks #leeks pic.twitter.com/m2zuAgH9yS
— Donald McCrorie (@grandetoro1949) April 19, 2017
Warburton will become the first player to lead the Lions on two successive tours since Martin Johnson captained the side in 1997 and 2001. The Welsh star played in the opening two Tests against Australia four years ago, before missing the decisive test through injury.
The Cardiff Blues player is currently recovering from a knee injury sustained against Ulster earlier this month, but it is not expected to effect his chances of travelling on tour.
You can read Alan Quinlan's squad predictions for the tour here.
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