England plans to play Marcus Smith backwards back with end Smith half the backline line against France in the hope of triggering its Guinness Six Nations campaign on Saturday.
Marcus Smith was the first choice of half since the 2023 World Cup, but could be transferred back to the confrontation of the Allianz stadium on Saturday to welcome the promotion of his namesake to the starting XV.
End Smith made its seven previous test appearances to replace, which means that its complete beginnings would be made in a game of critical importance with England playing to save their championship after losing 27-22 against Ireland at the first round.
Northampton’s recruit would have the responsibility of directing the background line with Marcus Smith providing a 15-year-old counter-attack threat, a position he held for the first time at the World Cup and held in the CAMES since.
The selection of two of the most creative talents of English rugby would offer an additional dimension with the ball in hand, although Freddie Steward’s downside would also steal the team of their air master.
“Marcus is obviously another set of eyes that are very opportunistic.” Where is space? Who can I beat? “” Said coach Richard Wigglesworth.
“But Freddie Steward brings an incredible level of skills to big ball and a kick return which is incredibly decisive on the way back. There are competing requests that you exchange all the time.
“We are fortunate to have three 10s which can all play international rugby at a high level. At the end was less lucky than the rest for the moment, but it is really clear with its game, it is confident without being arrogant And wants to get better.
“He has all the things you associate with the top 10. He is really clear with what he wants and how to best position the team.”
End Smith played the last 16 minutes of the defeat of England 27-22 against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday
Inside the center, Henry Slade will work in tandem with anyone who is chosen in half of France, and the back of Exeter insists that the two have unique skills sets.
“End sees space very well. There will always be space on the ground somewhere, you cannot defend everything, and he sees it very well,” said Slade.
“Obviously, he is a 10 different from Marcus. Marcus has this factor x in terms of beat a man in head and all that, but fine is very measured. He speaks very well.
“A large part of the role of a number 10 is to move the team to the place where they must be on the field and it was really good in this area.”
England lost in Dublin despite the beginner Cadan Murley by claiming an early test
Cadan Murley was excluded from France after undergoing an injury to the foot during its beginnings to the test in Dublin on Saturday, but could return in time for the end of the six nations.
“We are emptied for Cadan because what he did is overcome a huge amount of injury,” said Wigglesworth.
“He has the opportunity, he scores and assists, then he is unable to be again in the mixture the following week. I am delighted that he had his chance and really disappointed for him that It was removed fairly quickly. “
Six nations discussions: second round
Saturday February 8
Italy vs Wales (2:15 p.m.)
England vs France (4:45 p.m.)
Sunday February 9
Scotland vs Ireland (3 p.m.)
