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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the first-choice spot as England's number ten against New Zealand this weekend.

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

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus an aggressive Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and control, and made some strong decisions when things didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Command

His ability to settle the team tactically while making important decisions is something he has really nailed.

In my opinion, the young fly-half is England's number one fly-half and deserves to begin versus New Zealand next week.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick sees it that way as well, because Fin has demonstrated he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his performance from the tour of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance against Fiji represented a marked step up from the performance against Australia.

The Wallabies lost in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must not get too carried away about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive considering how below par Australia performed.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more dangerous while offering a much more difficult challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford challenging him but also offering support, I believe Fin will be in an excellent place in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as a possibility at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career and is starting to establish himself, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced their impact player, who scored the match-winning score to beat the Scottish team, and that shows the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating genuine influence as substitutes.

That kind of player might represent the deciding factor between winning the global tournament from failure.

McKenzie watches the game unfold while substituted and thinks about how to create an impact when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.

Positional Debate

If we can get Marcus to be that kind of impactful performer, then having him in the backfield could be valuable.

However, currently I don't think he represents the solution at full-back, so that is a position remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing the English defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.

This role requiring transforming into a genuine asset, in defense and in terms offensive transitions danger.

Currently, I don't think Marcus functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

I find it difficult to identify the advantage of playing him there.

I prefer the ball under his control as much as possible, but I believe this should occur in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist a lot of similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability to make right choices during tense moments - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I remember when he got the ball during one phase within his territory appearing like it could be should they spread play.

But in those split-seconds he calculated they needed reversing Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked it to pin them back applying the screw.

This represents the type of playmaking that wins titles while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He also has composure under pressure directing the players around him, and the understanding that he mustn't always need to be the first receiver.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating this at elite standards soon, similar to the veteran accomplish, particularly during domestic matches week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously one might suggest occasions existed he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I believe England possesses two fly-halves capable of performing the role, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is somewhat passive.

One might make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many considerations that go on behind closed doors, however the management decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected can put the All Blacks significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 might relieve pressure off England.