England's rugby team faces a significant lineup shake-up for their upcoming clash with Fiji, thanks to injuries that have struck key players Tom Roebuck and Freddie Steward. This reshuffle could be a game-changer, both literally and metaphorically!
The backline is set for a dramatic transformation, with the spotlight on Marcus Smith, Henry Arundell, and Ollie Lawrence as potential starters. With the Australia game's hero, Manny Feyi-Waboso, potentially the only remaining back-three player, the team's strategy will need to adapt.
Head coach Steve Borthwick's plans were disrupted when Roebuck's ankle injury forced him out of training, and Steward's finger injury added to the selection headache. Smith, with his versatile skills, is poised to step up and fill the void at full-back.
Roebuck's absence would be a blow, given his impressive aerial prowess against Australia, but England has a wealth of talent to draw from. The team is keen to continue experimenting with Tommy Freeman at centre, creating a selection dilemma with Arundell and Cadan Murley competing for spots. If Smith takes the field at full-back, a powerful ball-carrier like Lawrence could provide the perfect midfield balance.
Arundell, a try-scoring sensation during the 2023 World Cup, has been in top form for Bath this season. With his birthday approaching, he's eager to showcase his lightning pace on the international stage once again. England assistant coach Kevin Sinfield praised Arundell's try-scoring prowess and his impressive training performances.
Should Arundell, Feyi-Waboso, and Smith all start, they would form an incredibly elusive and attack-oriented trio. Sinfield believes Smith can excel as a full-back, especially with the injuries to George Furbank and Elliot Daly. He even suggests that Smith's versatility was a key factor in his Lions selection, highlighting his potential in both the fly-half and full-back positions.
But here's where it gets controversial: Sinfield's comparison of Feyi-Waboso to cross-code legend Jason Robinson is intriguing. He praises Feyi-Waboso's explosive power and muscle mass, traits that set him apart from even the likes of Rob Burrow. This bold statement is sure to spark debate among rugby enthusiasts.
So, with England's backline in flux, what do you think of the potential new lineup? Are Smith, Arundell, and Feyi-Waboso the dream team Borthwick needs? Or is there another combination that could prove even more effective? Share your thoughts and let's discuss the possibilities!
