"With the full-backs George Furbank of Northampton and Elliot Daly of Saracens already ruled out, Steward's setback may provide a chance for Smith. The Harlequins back shifted to No 15 last season to accommodate Fin Smith at fly-half but was left out against Australia. While he lacks the commanding aerial presence of Steward, he would offer more of a running threat against Fiji, who traditionally favour an offloading game."
"The Saracens flanker Ben Earl, who raced under the posts for England's first try against the Wallabies, is another player seen as capable of making a switch to midfield. Earl said he would love to play at No 12 and that there are several hybrid options available. I am just trying to help the team any way I can, he said. We have got a lot of boys now who could do a good job anywhere."
Freddie Steward has a hand injury after receiving pitchside treatment in the second half at Twickenham and finished the match in considerable pain but played 80 minutes. Steward will not return to training until Thursday. George Furbank and Elliot Daly are already ruled out. Steward's setback provides Marcus Smith with a likely opportunity to start at full-back against Fiji. Smith lacks Steward's commanding aerial presence but offers a stronger running threat suited to Fiji's traditional offloading game. Henry Slade, Tom Roebuck or Henry Arundell remain alternative full-back options. Ben Earl could switch to inside centre and has expressed willingness to play at No 12.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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