England XV to play Fiji: Henry Pollock starts

With injuries mounting and questions remaining over several selection calls, changes appear inevitable. Here, we take a look at how England could line up in Liverpool as they search for a much-needed victory and a chance to restore confidence.

With Freddie Steward's fitness still uncertain after last week's injury, and George Furbank ruled out for an extended period after developing appendicitis on the day of the Springboks match, Smith is the only proven fullback option available.

The Harlequins playmaker showed plenty of quality against South Africa, handling several dangerous situations well and demonstrating his attacking threat with ball in hand.

The experiment of playing Freeman at outside centre should come to an end. While he is clearly an outstanding winger, he has not shown the specialist skills needed to thrive in the position at Test level.

Steve Borthwick should return him to the wing, where he has been one of Northampton Saints' standout performers this season.

Slade may not be England's long-term solution at outside centre, but he offers composure, experience and stability at a time when the team needs a result to halt a five-match losing run.

The Exeter Chiefs veteran has been performing strongly this season and, at 33, has the experience to handle high-pressure situations. Max Ojomoh is another option, but Slade's experience gives him the advantage for now.

Although Atkinson was not at his best against South Africa, he showed enough promise to justify another opportunity.

He is a powerful ball carrier with clear potential and, with only five caps to his name, would benefit from further international exposure. This fixture presents an ideal chance for him to continue his development.

England also need continuity in the backline, so there is little reason to make a change here. Ojomoh remains a viable alternative.

There are few reasons to remove Feyi-Waboso from the starting side. While he was not at his sharpest against the Springboks, he remains one of England's premier wing options alongside Freeman.

His place in the team should not be under threat.

Much like Feyi-Waboso, Fin Smith's selection is unlikely to be questioned. He appears to be both the immediate and long-term answer at fly-half.

Calm under pressure, strong defensively and capable of creating opportunities for those around him, he brings a complete skill set to the position. Unless injury intervenes, he is expected to start.

Continuity is important, and although Mitchell would replace Jack van Poortvliet, who started against South Africa, his established partnership with Fin Smith at Northampton Saints is a major advantage.

Van Poortvliet performed solidly, but some criticism centred on the tempo of England's attack. If Mitchell is fully fit after his injury lay-off, he should be given the nod.

Genge remains one of the first names on the team sheet and is expected to start unless England opt for a strategy that prioritises impact from the bench.

As captain, George is almost certain to retain his place in the starting XV and will provide valuable leadership and experience.

Like Genge, Heyes is the leading option in his position and should start unless England choose a different tactical balance between the starting side and replacements.

Martin impressed on his return to Test rugby, powering through South African defenders to score a try in his first international appearance for more than a year.

His physicality and ball-carrying power could be particularly valuable against Fiji.

Chessum partnered Martin in the second row for Leicester Tigers this season, and the pair developed a strong understanding.

Although he performed well at blindside flanker, moving him back to lock allows England to field a more dynamic back row.

Every successful side needs a player willing to do the hard work, and Curry fills that role exceptionally well.

Operating at blindside flanker in this combination, his work rate, physicality and defensive contributions make him a near-certain starter.

Pollock had limited opportunities to make an impact from the bench against South Africa, but he remains one of England's most in-form players.

His energy, intensity and enthusiasm could provide a lift for both the team and supporters. Starting him at openside flanker would allow him to maximise his effectiveness at the breakdown while also showcasing his running ability.

Earl delivered an impressive display against South Africa, contributing heavily in both attack and defence with a high number of carries and tackles.

His pace and skill with the ball make him a constant threat, while his work rate away from possession is equally valuable.

Alongside Pollock and Curry, he would complete an athletic and highly mobile back row capable of causing problems across the field.