World Cup semi-finalists England will look to bounce back from the disappointment of last September as they continue their Six Nations campaign against Wales.
The team are tipped to do better than they did the last campaign in the competition but would be dealt with a huge dilemma in the number 10 position as they will be without key players.
Owen Farrell is taking a hiatus from England duty, while Harlequins‘ Marcus Smith could potentially out altogether with a serious injury sustained whilst in training camp.
George Ford, who started as a fly-half at the Stadio Olimpico last week, will wear the shirt again this weekend.
This represent huge boost for both player and country, considering how well Ford performed at the World Cup, taking the place of Farrell in the early matches at the tournament.
The 30-year-old was instrumental in getting the team to the semi-finals with his experience and his drop kicking ability helping England get over the line in several games and that is something that the England would need to utilise in bigger games in the Six Nations.
Despite this, England might have an issue as the competition continues.
They may be thin, not only in numbers in the position but also in experience without Farrell and Smith.
The only other option Steve Borthwick has is uncapped Fin Smith of Northampton Saints who has been called up to the squad for the first time.
While England have quality all over the team, but Borthwick will need to find a clear replacement for the missing stars in this key position.
It will be interesting to see how the team respond and whether the impact of missing these players will be an issue as the tournament continues.
Image credit: David Diangienda
