England XV to face Italy: Maro Itoje benched

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Selection will be pivotal as they attempt to rediscover momentum, restore belief and prove their resilience against an increasingly confident Azzurri outfit this weekend in Rome.

Freddie Steward looks likely to miss out after a disappointing display against Ireland, which opens the door for a new fullback. Marcus Smith stepped in during that match and looked assured and composed, making him the standout option to take over the 15 jersey.

Tom Roebuck could benefit from a rest, and the closest like-for-like replacement in terms of aerial strength and carrying threat is Tommy Freeman. He has not quite hit top form in this Six Nations, but returning to his natural wing position may help unlock his best performances.

England need steady heads and proven quality, and Henry Slade offers both. He has been in strong form for Exeter this season and, with 74 caps to his name, has plenty of experience in pressure situations. His leadership and composure could be crucial in a game where England need to respond.

Seb Atkinson represents the long-term future at inside centre. Now fully fit again, the Gloucester man combines outstanding fitness, pace and power with real playmaking ability. While Fraser Dingwall is a solid option, Atkinson brings a spark and unpredictability that could elevate England’s attack.

This selection leans on experience once more. Henry Arundell may drop out, leaving Cadan Murley and Elliot Daly as the main alternatives. Daly’s versatility and familiarity with the left wing role at international level make him a reliable and valuable choice.

After a couple of underwhelming outings, George Ford could make way for Fin Smith. Calm under pressure and mature beyond his years, the young fly-half looks ready for greater responsibility. Giving him more exposure ahead of the World Cup would be a smart investment.

While Ben Spencer is a viable option, Jack van Poortvliet offers slightly more dynamism and long-term potential. He impressed off the bench following Alex Mitchell’s injury and could inject fresh energy into the side.

One of England’s more consistent performers in this Six Nations, Ellis Genge has been reliable and powerful up front and is unlikely to be left out.

Leadership and stability are vital at hooker. Jamie George would provide both, particularly if Luke Cowan-Dickie is given time to regroup after a difficult outing against Ireland.

Joe Heyes has quietly put together an impressive campaign. Unless his impact is considered more valuable from the bench, he deserves to continue in the starting lineup.

With Maro Itoje struggling for form and dealing with off-field matters, this could be a good opportunity to take him out of the spotlight. Alex Coles has shown promise when called upon and deserves another chance to stake his claim.

Although not at his absolute best, Ollie Chessum remains a key figure in the second row. In Itoje’s likely absence, he would bring leadership and physical presence to the engine room.

Tom Curry’s experience and tenacity could help steady the pack. While Guy Pepper has a bright future, this may be a moment for senior players to step up and assert themselves.

Ben Earl has performed well during this Six Nations and merits a start. Slotting him in at openside flanker allows England to reshape the balance of the back row.

England were overpowered against Ireland and need greater physicality in the back row. Chandler Cunningham-South offers exactly that with his direct carrying and robust presence. His inclusion would add much-needed punch and edge.

The forward bench largely picks itself if the starting XV lines up as above, particularly in the front row. While it would be tough to omit Itoje entirely, a place among the replacements could allow him breathing space away from the spotlight. Sam Underhill and Henry Pollock would bring intensity and impact off the bench. In the backs, Raffi Quirke provides added spark and versatility, while George Furbank, although perhaps not quite ready for a full return from injury, would be a strong and flexible option to call upon late in the game.