Keeping George at 10 is the key for England

EDDIE Jones must resist any temptation to tinker with the George Ford/Owen Farrell combination ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final says Guy Thompson.

While Farrell’s form has been questioned, Ford has answered his doubters and must retain the No.10 jersey, according to Thompson.

“I can’t see why you wouldn’t want to keep George at No.10,” he said. “George was the one shining light we had at Leicester last season and at times he single-handedly dragged us through games and got us the points to stay up.

“He’s a great leader who offers unbelievable composure in highpressure situations, which is something you need in World Cup knock-out games.

“His kicking game is outstanding and there’s no better No.10 in the world going to the line and putting people through holes.

“George has showed exactly what he’s about in this World Cup and against Argentina he was the best player on the park. I can’t see him having a bad game and while Eddie Jones might have other plans, I’d start George at No.10.”

Jones seems wedded to keeping his captain Farrell on the pitch at all costs and Thompson added: “You can understand his desire to keep ‘Faz’ on the pitch because he’s an outstanding player as well – someone I have a lot of respect for.

“When they’re on the pitch together England seem to be in a better place. They’ve played together a lot and having that ability to read each other in those high-pressure situations is something that will only improve the England squad as a whole as this tournament moves on.”