By Islam El-Sakka
England fly-half Fin Smith is on track to feature in the autumn Nations Championship opener against Australia on Sunday after progressing well from a calf injury sustained on 24 October.
Smith progresses through recovery
Smith trained with the England squad for the first time since the injury on Wednesday, and the team is increasingly optimistic he will be cleared for the match at Allianz Stadium. Head coach Steve Borthwick will name his team on Friday, potentially giving his first-choice fly-half two full training sessions before the first of four Tests this month.
Ford and Marcus Smith alternatives
If Smith fails to prove his fitness, Test centurion George Ford and Harlequins playmaker Marcus Smith will compete for the number 10 jersey. Northampton teammate Tommy Freeman said Smith is "tracking nicely" and doing the right work with physiotherapists.
Mitchell ruled out for autumn
England have also lost scrum-half Alex Mitchell for the entire autumn campaign after a scan confirmed a hamstring injury requiring weeks of rehabilitation. Mitchell's absence, along with Archie McParland's calf issue, has forced the addition of Ben Spencer and Harry Randall to the squad.
Freeman settled on the wing
Freeman, who started on the wing in the July wins over Fiji and Argentina, appears set to continue there. He said the position has been a focus and provides continuity, though he retains the ability to cover midfield if needed.
