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It showed that England have the ability to dominate teams in those “championship minutes” \u2013 the times that really matter, the ones that France fluffed in the first half.<\/p>\n
Marcus Smith is a game-breaker. He score tries, he is on all the posters and is so exciting to watch – his is probably the one name that kids growing up who want to get into rugby know about.<\/p>\n
But at that level yesterday, it is very difficult to integrate those type of players into key decision-making roles.<\/p>\n
While George Furbank recovers from his injury, I think Marcus Smith will play at full-back, but I don’t necessarily think he is the long-term solution there.<\/p>\n
Fin Smith showed there is a difference in the way you can compete. There has to be an element of calmness and control. For all his individual gifts \u2013 perhaps because of them – that isn’t Marcus Smith’s forte.<\/p>\n
I don’t think it will be a difficult decision for Steve Borthwick. <\/p>\n
In opting for Marcus Smith over Freddie Steward at full-back, you sacrifice aerial security for more of an attacking threat, but I think that is a price worth paying for this England team.<\/p>\n
Long-term though, particularly with the Northampton connection, I foresee George Furbank coming back into the team at 15.<\/p>\n
Test match rugby is tough.<\/p>\n
It is uncompromising high-performance environment. We are now more mindful of looking after each other in the work place and that is vital and important. But this is sport and it is a strict meritocracy. If there is someone who will serve the team better, you are out. And that is OK.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n