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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half against New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive display observed from an England playmaker for quite some time.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits against a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management was also immense - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and control, and made some strong choices during moments didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess and Strategic Command

His ability to calm the team tactically while making big calls is something he has truly mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's primary fly-half and he should begin versus New Zealand next week.

I believe head coach the England coach sees it similarly too, because Fin has proven he can perform during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

George Ford started last Saturday against Australia for leadership reasons, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency while acknowledging his performance during the visit of Argentina.

But England's performance against Fiji represented a marked improvement compared to the display against Australia.

Australia were defeated in Italy last weekend, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive considering how below par the Australians performed.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more threatening and presented a much more difficult challenge.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker is still only twenty-three - projecting forward two years, with Ford pushing him while providing backup, I believe Smith will find himself in an excellent place in his career.

The Harlequins star must also be regarded as a possibility when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He is developing as a player while beginning to establish himself, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the decisive try defeating the Scottish team, and that shows the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating a real impact from the bench.

That kind of presence can be the difference between winning the global tournament or not.

The All Blacks substitute watches the match develop while substituted and thinks about how to create an impact upon entering.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have improved substantially since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith as such type influential performer, then having him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick to challenge England's backfield, so it has to be watertight.

This role that needs to become a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms of the counter-attack threat.

Right now, I don't think Marcus functions as full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to identify the advantage of playing him there.

I want possession in his hands frequently, though I think that should be among starters, especially during the last quarter.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities comparing Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity executing right choices under pressure - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I remember as he received the ball during one phase within his territory and it looked that opportunity existed should they spread play.

However during these milliseconds he thought the team required reversing the opposition since England were up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin the opponents applying the screw.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins championships while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He also has that calmness during intensity to organise teammates nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve as primary option.

I want to see him given the chance to show this at elite level next week, just as we have seen the veteran accomplish, especially at club level repeatedly consistently.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up in difficult situations, 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 job, but with Fin's defence on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to modify your defensive system when you have an assertive player in the fly-half position, rather than someone who is somewhat reserved.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from the bench.

There are so many considerations occurring privately, but whichever way the management choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand problems.

That has not always been the narrative against the All Blacks, where the focus was simply on picking the optimal individual.

On this occasion, either playmaker selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick while delivering enabling possible 50-20 can take all the stress off the national team.