
England winger Tom Roebuck is a fitness concern ahead of Saturday’s Quilter Nations Series match against Fiji after suffering an ankle injury during training on Tuesday.
Roebuck, who impressed with his involvement in two of England’s tries during the 25-7 win over Australia last weekend, will be assessed in the coming days. Meanwhile, full-back Freddie Steward is also yet to train this week as he recovers from a hand injury picked up in the same match at Twickenham.
Head coach Steve Borthwick is due to confirm his matchday squad on Thursday, with England seeking a ninth consecutive victory as momentum continues to build under his leadership.
If Steward is ruled out, Marcus Smith could return to the starting XV at full-back—a role he has filled on several occasions over the past two years. Smith missed out on selection for the Australia game but remains a versatile option within a squad that also includes fellow fly-halves Fin Smith and George Ford.
Assistant coach Kevin Sinfield admitted that managing the ambitions of three top-class playmakers is a delicate balancing act.
“You don’t keep them all happy—and that’s how it should be,” Sinfield told BBC Sport. “At this level, there’s always someone frustrated because everyone wants the shirt. But they’re good men who understand the team comes first. It takes managing, but they accept they’ll sometimes get bad news and have to work through it.”
Sinfield added that Marcus Smith would embrace any opportunity to feature at full-back again:
“He’ll always say he’s a 10, but the best players adapt. Across all sports, the top performers don’t always play in their club position.”
Rising Star Henry Pollock Waiting in the Wings
Sinfield also praised 20-year-old flanker Henry Pollock, whose energetic cameos from the bench have caught the eye this year. Pollock scored twice against Wales in March and delivered another decisive try against Australia last weekend.
“He’s confident, believes in his ability, and brings great energy to the squad,” Sinfield said. “For someone his age to have that mix of talent, attitude, and composure is remarkable. It won’t be long before he earns his first start.”


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