George Ford and Owen Farrell reunited – England v Samoa talking points

Ford and Farrell are starting together for the first time since the 2021 Six Nations.

Published Oct 6, 2023

Samoa may have endured a disappointing World Cup that is almost certain to result in group-stage elimination but they will be determined to finish on a high against Pool D winners England in Lille on Saturday.

Here the PA news agency examines five talking points ahead of England’s last match before the knockout phase.

England go full bore

Steve Borthwick takes satisfaction in repeating his mantra that the next match is all that counts, but by going full bore against Samoa he has revealed his selection thinking for the quarter-final against probable opponents Fiji. One or two adjustments aside, this is the starting XV that will take the field in Marseille on Sunday week, shaped around the generalship of George Ford and Owen Farrell.

Back in the saddle

Steve Borthwick and England — Steve Borthwick’s side have won every game at the World Cup so far (Mike Egerton/PA)

History beckons for beefed up Farrell

Owen Farrell is a key player for England (Mike Egerton/PA)

England know their strengths

Jonny May is in the England side against Samoa (David Davies/PA)

Manu’s special moment

Manu Tuilagi left Samoa as a teenager (David Davies/PA)