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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot as England's fly-half versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the best defensive display we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and control, and made some strong decisions during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to calm the squad strategically while making important decisions is something he has truly mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's number one fly-half and deserves to start versus New Zealand this weekend.

I think head coach the England coach sees it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

George Ford began last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, and part of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his form from the tour of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated on Italian soil last weekend, therefore we must not get overly excited about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive considering how below par the Australians performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult test.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker is still only twenty-three - projecting forward two years, with Ford challenging him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as an option when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique qualities.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score to beat Scotland, and that shows the importance of having individuals who can make genuine influence from the bench.

That kind of presence can be the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie watches the game unfold from the bench while considering about how to create a difference upon entering.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus to be that kind influential player, including him in the backfield could be valuable.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick testing the English backfield, so it has to be impenetrable.

It is a position requiring to become a real strength, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions danger.

Right now, I believe Marcus functions as full-back at the highest level.

I find it difficult to see the advantage fielding him in that position.

I want possession under his control frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make the correct choices under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

I remember as he received possession at one stage within his own half appearing that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he calculated the team required to turn Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked to pressure the opponents applying pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play that wins titles and wins World Cups.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness during intensity to organise teammates nearby, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary option.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen the veteran accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously you could argue occasions existed he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, but with Fin's defence on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to modify the defensive structure when you have an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, rather than someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith entering from the bench.

There are so many factors occurring privately, but whichever way the coaches choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the narrative against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks and execute enabling possible 50-20 might relieve all the stress off England.