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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half versus the All Blacks this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive performance we have seen from an England playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and control, and made some strong choices when things didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to calm the squad tactically and make important decisions represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's primary playmaker and he should start versus the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it similarly as well, since Smith has proven he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his performance during the visit to South America.

But England's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must not get too carried away with that win, that could have been more comprehensive given how below par Australia performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more dangerous while offering a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker is still only 23 - looking ahead two years, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

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 distinctive attributes.

Bench Impact

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive try defeating the Scottish team, and that shows the significance of having players capable of creating genuine influence from the bench.

That kind of presence might represent the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute watches the game unfold from the bench while considering regarding ways to create an impact when he comes on.

His choices and mistake frequency have improved significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith as such type of impactful performer, including him among substitutes could be valuable.

However, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution at full-back, making it a role remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge the English defensive line, so it has to be impenetrable.

This role that needs to become a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions danger.

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

I struggle to see the benefit of playing him there.

I want the ball in his hands frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of similarities comparing Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability executing the correct decisions under pressure - his natural reactions represent traits you can really coach.

I recall as he received the ball during one phase within his territory appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.

But in those split-seconds he calculated they needed reversing the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted to pressure them back and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure directing teammates around him, and the understanding that he doesn't always need to be the first receiver.

I want to see him given the opportunity demonstrating this at elite level next week, similar to the veteran accomplish, especially at club level week in consistently.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up in difficult circumstances, where historically one might suggest there have been times he has not quite delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe we have playmaking options capable of performing the role, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, it makes him the better-rounded all-round performer.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to adjust the defensive structure when you have an assertive player in the fly-half position, rather than someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from substitution.

There are so many considerations that go on behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand problems.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative facing New Zealand, where the focus was simply on picking the optimal individual.

This time, whichever fly-half they choose can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks while delivering enabling possible 50-20 might relieve pressure off England.