Wing Tom Roebuck’s availability for England’s upcoming match against Fiji this Saturday is in question following an ankle injury he sustained during training on Tuesday. Roebuck was instrumental in England’s 25-7 victory over Australia last weekend, contributing significantly to two of the team’s tries.
In addition to Roebuck’s concerns, full-back Freddie Steward is also struggling with a hand injury he acquired during the match against the Wallabies and has yet to train this week. England head coach Steve Borthwick is set to announce his matchday squad on Thursday, as the team aims for its ninth consecutive win.
Should Steward be unable to play, Marcus Smith may step in as a potential starter at full-back, having been excluded from the squad during the previous match. The team’s fly-half options include Smith, his namesake Fin, and veteran George Ford, all of whom are part of the broader squad. However, assistant coach Kevin Sinfield recognizes that managing the expectations of these talented players is a complex task.
“You don’t [keep them all happy],” Sinfield remarked to BBC Sport. “But that’s how it should be. At this level, there are always players who may feel disgruntled or frustrated. They all want a chance to play.”
Despite the challenges, Sinfield appreciates their commitment to the team’s success, noting that Marcus Smith is adaptable enough to fill in at full-back if required, despite considering himself primarily a fly-half.
In looking ahead, Sinfield expressed confidence in Henry Pollock’s potential, predicting that it won’t be long before Pollock earns his first start for England. The 20-year-old has impressed with notable performances coming off the bench, including two tries against Wales and a decisive score against Australia.
“He’s very confident and absolutely believes in his ability. He brings energy and enthusiasm, and his talent is undeniable,” Sinfield stated. As Pollock continues to develop, his contributions could be a vital asset for the England squad moving forward.
With several players aiming to secure their places in the starting lineup, the upcoming match against Fiji presents a crucial opportunity for the team to demonstrate their depth and resilience in pursuit of another victory.