ENGLAND are giving strong consideration to fielding playmakers Marcus Smith and Fin Smith in their backline against France in the hope of igniting their Six Nations.

Marcus Smith has been first choice fly-half since the 2023 World Cup but he could be moved to full-back for Saturday’s Twickenham showdown to accommodate his namesake’s promotion to the starting XV.

Fin Smith has made all seven of his previous Test appearances as a replacement, meaning his full debut would come in a game of critical importance with England playing to save their championship after losing 27-22 to Ireland in round one.