"Since the tour of Argentina last summer, Ford has established himself as Borthwick's first-choice fly-half but he endured a miserable outing against Ireland and was jeered by supporters after twice missing touch with kicks to the corner. Smith, meanwhile, has played a bit-part role in the championship to date."
"Borthwick is also expected to rejig his centre combination and back three in a back-line that may feature only one survivor from the dismal defeat by Ireland, with Tommy Freeman expected to move from wing to centre. With Alex Mitchell absent because of a hamstring injury, Ben Spencer of Bath is the favourite for the No 9 jersey."
"England's hopes of clinching the Six Nations title are over but they have never lost against Italy and the back-rower Ben Earl has revealed there have been some home truths aired this week."
England coach Steve Borthwick is implementing substantial changes to his squad for the Six Nations clash against Italy following a poor performance against Ireland. Fin Smith is expected to replace George Ford at fly-half, provided he recovers from illness. The backline will undergo significant restructuring, with Tommy Freeman moving from wing to centre, Tom Roebuck returning on the right wing, and Cadan Murley considered for the left wing. Ben Spencer is favored for the scrum-half position over Jack van Poortvliet, while Freddie Steward's position at full-back faces scrutiny. Seb Atkinson is set to replace Fraser Dingwall at inside-centre. The pack will see fewer changes, though Ollie Chessum's availability is uncertain. England's Six Nations title hopes are eliminated, but the team maintains an unbeaten record against Italy.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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