Marcus Smith returns to England squad ahead of France clash

England head coach Steve Borthwick has recalled Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith in the squad ahead of the fourth round of the Six Nations clash against France.

Smith was released from the squad to give him more game time with his club and has impressed since then with Harlequins' 40-5 win over Exeter Chiefs last weekend.

"Marcus did exactly what Steve Borthwick asked of him," said Harlequins head coach Tabai Matson after the game.

"When I spoke to Steve on Sunday, he said he wanted Marcus to come back, boss the game and get some minutes.

"Ultimately, his success at international level has been underpinned by what he has done here.

"Our attack system's nearly built around him and for him to slot back in and find space, whether it be run, kick or pass, just shows you what a rare talent he is."

England are positioned third in the Six Nations table with two wins from three matches.

England squad:

Forwards: Ollie Chessum, Dan Cole, Ben Curry, Alex Dombrandt, Tom Dunn, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Lewis Ludlam, David Ribbans, Bevan Rodd, Sam Simmonds, Kyle Sinckler, Mako Vunipola, Jack Walker, Jack Willis

Backs: Henry Arundell, Owen Farrell, Tommy Freeman, George Ford, Ollie Lawrence, Max Malins, Joe Marchant, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Henry Slade, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Manu Tuilagi, Jack van Poortvliet, Anthony Watson, Ben Youngs