"The head coach, Steve Borthwick, had been hoping to announce his starting XV early this week only for that plan to be mothballed when Roebuck limped out of training prematurely on Tuesday with an ankle problem. Steward has not trained so far this week after sustaining a finger injury late in the win against the Wallabies, opening the way for Smith to replace him at full-back."
"Arundell, meanwhile, has not played for England since departing for the French Top 14 following the 2023 World Cup, during which he scored five tries in a single game against Chile. He has been in excellent form this season for Bath and, with his 23rd birthday looming on Saturday, is itching for another chance to show off his startling pace at the highest level."
England face a likely backline reshuffle ahead of the Test against Fiji after Tom Roebuck and Freddie Steward suffered training and match injuries. Marcus Smith, Henry Arundell and Ollie Lawrence are contenders, with Manny Feyi-Waboso potentially the sole survivor from the Australia starting back three. Roebuck limped out of training with an ankle problem and Steward has not trained following a finger injury. Management prefer Tommy Freeman at centre, creating competition for wing or back-three places with Arundell and Cadan Murley. Arundell has been in strong form for Bath and seeks an England recall. A Smith start at full-back would prompt calls for a more physical midfield presence.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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