The fly-half contenders

GEORGE FORD — The Bath youngster has shown that he is not too small for Test rugby and is enjoying a consistent run of good form. Can take the ball up to the gainline, but can also orchestrate play from deep.

OWEN FARRELL — First choice at the start of the autumn, but a lack of form and game-time saw the Saracens No 10 dropped. A cool head with the boot and a solid defender, lacks attacking spark of his challengers.

STEPHEN MYLER — Hard to ignore the man who is helping to keep Northampton at the top of the table, but too conservative and would not scare the Southern Hemisphere big three. At 30, he offers a calm head with more experience than his rivals.

DANNY CIPRIANI — A popular choice after some impressive performances at Sale, but does not seem to be in Stuart Lancaster’s plans. Lacks consistency, but has the attacking wizardry to turn a game on its head from the bench.

FREDDIE BURNS — Similar to Cipriani in terms of his eccentric style but does not carry the weight of celebrity baggage. A major lack of game-time at Leicester means Burns has had little chance to turn the heads of the England selectors.

HENRY SLADE — The uncapped wildcard has been compared to Dan Carter by Exeter Chiefs team-mate Dean Mumm. Can operate at No 10 or in the centres and seems to have the full attacking and defensive repertoire at club level.