The in-form Ireland No.10 has put himself ahead of the two pre-Six Nations favourites for the Lions fly-half shirt.

The selection of Fin Smith at fly-half, shifting Marcus Smith to full-back and comparisons to Manchester United have felt like the scrutiny on Steve Borthwick’s side has gone up a notch.

George Ford started all five of England’s Six Nations matches but with the Sale No.10 ruled out through injury, opportunity knocks this summer for two of Borthwick’s brightest talents.

With Owen Farrell announcing he will be stepping back from international rugby to protect his and his family’s mental health, which fly-half can put themselves to the front of the queue to replace the talismanic skipper?