"He had everything" - Marcus Smith ranks his top three fly-halves
Rugby NewsFriday, 10 December 2021 at 23:59
Marcus Smith revealed that during the autumn campaign he spent two sessions a week working with England's World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson, who ranks among his top three fly-halves.
The former Newcastle playmakers remarkable dedication to training and preparation has opened the 22-year-old's eyes to what is required to be a success on the international stage.
“For me that is the biggest learning I get from him in terms of mental preparation," said Smith.
"How to deal with things that don’t always go your way, how to deal with things that go your way and just how to live – how to be a good person,” said Smith.
“I do try and aim beyond the posts, pick a target but I don’t have an imaginary woman or Coke can.”
MARCUS SMITH: TOP THREE FLY-HALVES
#3. Nick Evans
One of Harlequins greatest ever players, scoring 2,249 points in 208 matches. A standout moment was probably his 20-point haul at Twickenham as Harlequins won their first ever Premiership title against Leicester in 2012.
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 08: Nick Evans of Harlequins poses for a portrait during the Aviva Premiership Season Launch at Twickenham Stoop on October 8, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images for Aviva)
#2. Dan Carter
Smith said: "Carter has everything: a superb kicking game, a beautifully balanced running game and a sound defence."
Did you know? In 2008, American Cable Channel E! judged Carter to be 11th on its list of the world’s sexiest man
#1. Jonny Wilkinson
Smith said: "Jonny Wilkinson has been working hard with me to help me keep getting better ... he's the best of all-time in my opinion."
Did you know? In 1997 he gave up a place at Durham University to become a professional rugby union player with the Newcastle Falcons.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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