Six Nations 2024: England's choice of George Furbank 'very different to Steve Borthwick' – Money

England's decision to field George Furbank at full-back against Scotland is an “attack-minded choice” but “completely different from Steve Borthwick”, says former England winger Ugo Mooney.

Furbank, 27, has been in fine form for Premier League leaders Northampton.

“I really appreciate Steward and when he played for England he was very good, very reliable.

He added: “Furbank coming at the age of 15 increases England’s ability to attack, be more cohesive and dangerous and score more points.

“This is an attack-minded pick, and the only reason I'm surprised by him is because he's so different [head coach] Steve Borthwick. The England team wants to move on and progress. “This could be a real point of difference for England.”

England arrive at Murrayfield having narrowly won two matches against Italy and Wales in this year's Six Nations Championship.

Borthwick's side have won eight of their past nine Test matches. Their only defeat was a one-point loss in the World Cup semi-final to eventual champions South Africa.

The England manager is conservative in his approach to the game, but he made another surprise choice when he dropped Steward and played Marcus Smith at full-back in a World Cup match last year, instead of his usual full-back role. .

Steward has been a consistent presence for England in the No.15 shirt since his debut in 2021, but Furbank, who is set to win his seventh cap, offers additional pace and playmaking ability.

Six days later, Furbank was part of the England side that beat Scotland 13-6 in poor weather conditions – England's last Calcutta Cup win.

“There are some things I've been working on and I feel like I'm in a better place as an all-rounder,” Furbank told BBC Sport.

“I've gotten a little bit bigger, which has helped improve my game. I've taken on a bigger leadership role at Saints.

He added: “I am completely realistic with myself, and I know that I am not a player who can perform at an average level and participate in the England squad.

“I don't necessarily think I saw the choice coming. Freddie [Steward] He's been in great form the last few games, playing really well.

“His consistency is something I strive for as well. This is something I want to develop in my game.”