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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's fly-half against New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen from an England fly-half in several years.

How he fronted up by consistently making his tackles versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and control, while executing several crucial choices during moments didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to calm the squad strategically and make important decisions represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's number one playmaker and he should start against the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it that way too, because Fin has demonstrated his capability during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

George Ford started the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity and reward his performance during the visit to South America.

However, the national team's showing versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

Australia were defeated in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, which should have been by a larger margin considering how off the pace Australia were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more threatening while offering a much more difficult test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering support, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option at the right time and against suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score defeating Scotland, demonstrating the significance of having players who can make genuine influence as substitutes.

That kind of player might represent the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie observes the game develop from the bench while considering about how to create a difference upon entering.

His decision-making and error rate have improved significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith to be that kind influential performer, including him among substitutes could be beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution at full-back, making it a position that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand are likely to punt testing the English defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

It is a position requiring transforming into a real strength, in defense and in terms of the counter-attack threat.

Currently, I don't think Smith functions as full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to see the advantage fielding him in that position.

I prefer the ball under his control frequently, though I think that should be in the front line, particularly during the last 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity executing the correct decisions during tense moments - his instincts are not something that can be taught.

I recall as he received possession at one stage within his territory appearing that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin the opponents and turn the screw.

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

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness during intensity directing teammates around him, while recognizing that he doesn't always need to be the first option.

I hope to witness him given the opportunity demonstrating this at elite level next week, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, particularly during domestic matches week in and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully done so during extremely tense matches.

I believe England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the job, though Smith's defensive work combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded all-round performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates there's no need to adjust the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous considerations occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, this will present New Zealand problems.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

This time, whichever fly-half they choose will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity selecting optimal kicks while delivering for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress off the national team.