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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's number ten versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced without doubt the best defensive display we have seen from an England playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach by consistently making his tackles versus a physical Fijian team was impressive.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and control, while executing some strong choices when things were not going as expected in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to settle the squad tactically while making big calls is something he has really nailed.

From my perspective, Fin Smith represents England's primary fly-half and he should begin versus New Zealand next week.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, because Fin has proven he can perform during important international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

George Ford started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring consistency while acknowledging his performance from the tour to South America.

However, the national team's showing versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant improvement compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated on Italian soil last weekend, so we should not get too carried away with that win, which should have been by a larger margin considering how off the pace Australia performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous while offering a much more difficult test.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just twenty-three - projecting forward two years, with Ford pushing him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

Marcus Smith must also be regarded as a possibility at the right time and against suitable opponents.

He is developing as a player and is starting to establish himself, though he requires liberty to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on their impact player, who scored the decisive try to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of possessing players capable of creating genuine influence from the bench.

Such type of player can be the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie watches the match develop from the bench while considering about how he can make a difference upon entering.

His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly from his initial professional days.

Positional Debate

If we can get Smith to be that kind influential performer, including him among substitutes might prove valuable.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, so it has to be watertight.

It is a position that needs to become a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

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

I find it difficult to see the benefit of playing him there.

I want the ball in his hands frequently, though I think that should be in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make the correct choices during tense moments - his natural reactions are not something you can really taught.

I remember when he got the ball at one stage just inside his territory and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he thought the team required reversing the opposition since England were leading points-wise, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn pressure.

That's the sort of playmaking securing titles while claiming global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness during intensity to organise teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't constantly serve as primary receiver.

I want to see him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to the veteran do, particularly during club level repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult situations, previously one might suggest there have been times he has not quite delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the better-rounded all-round player.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is a little more passive.

One might make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith entering from substitution.

There are so many considerations that go on behind closed doors, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, it will give the opponents difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, when attention concentrated solely on picking the right player.

This time, whichever fly-half they choose will pressure the All Blacks significantly.

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute enabling possible territorial gains can take pressure away from the national team.