The England squad took a detour into the kitchen during their training camp in York, attempting to prepare a steak dinner. Some players followed the recipe precisely, others improvised, and it’s not hard to imagine Marcus Smith adding a creative flourish. The metaphor for England’s attack in the Six Nations is clear they have all the right ingredients but are still searching for a signature dish.
Despite repeated assurances about an expansive, attacking game, England’s performances have yet to match the rhetoric. Against Scotland, they kicked away 69% of their possession. Against France, they barely held on. While they’ve shown resilience in grinding out victories, the attacking sharpness remains elusive.
England enter their match against Italy with two wins under their belt, bristling at criticism suggesting their approach is too conservative. They argue that finding ways to win tight games is commendable, even if it lacks aesthetic appeal. However, there is an understanding within the squad that the attack must improve. Captain Maro Itoje dismissed the notion that their attack is entirely ineffective, stating, “We want to get better at it but I don’t think we’re starting from a bad place.”
A year ago, a similar situation unfolded when England revamped their attack after a loss to Scotland. Training had been focused on defense, but a shift in emphasis led to thrilling performances against Ireland and France. Since then, Marcus Smith was entrusted with the fly-half role, but victories remained scarce against top-tier opposition. Following six consecutive defeats to tier-one teams, he was moved to full-back in favor of Fin Smith at fly-half.
Victories over France and Scotland followed, and England returned to York to refine their attack again. Marcus Smith, reportedly devastated by his omission, found himself training with the replacements, signaling the change in direction. His absence increases the pressure on the team to deliver an attacking spark, especially against an Italian side they have never lost to. Given that England have not won a Six Nations match by more than 10 points since facing Italy two years ago, expectations remain high.
The struggles against Scotland raise further questions. Despite pre-match declarations of attacking intent, England seemed more comfortable in a battle of attrition rather than dictating play. Was the strategy too rigid? Should they trust instinct more?
Elliot Daly, making his first start at full-back in four years, had simple advice: “The less you think, the better you are. The more you are in the moment, the better.” A seasoned player at 32, Daly brings experience and an underrated skill set. His ability to break defenses and his familiarity with many teammates, particularly from Northampton, could help bring cohesion to England’s attack.
Not long ago, Marcus Smith was seen as central to England’s plans for the 2027 World Cup, but now the stage belongs to Fin Smith. A dominant attacking display against Italy would reinforce his position, but another disjointed performance will only invite further scrutiny. England have the talent at their disposal, but the time has come to serve up a performance that truly satisfies
