George Ford
Ford scored 16 points on his debut for England at No.10. Getty Images

England fly-half George Ford is in line to face Australia in the final international of the autumn series after impressing coach Stuart Lancaster in the win over Samoa.

Ford scored 16 points with the boot but provided a much-needed creative spark on his first start in the England midfield, ahead of old school friend Owen Farrell who reverted to inside centre.

And though Lancaster refused to confirm that Ford would be handed a second start in as many weeks for the visit of two-time world champions Australia, the England coach was delighted with the 21-year old's performance.

"I think it's a big responsibly for such a young player to come on and run a game and I thought he did it well," he said. "As a team we needed to play more in their half and that was the message at half time.

"He looked incisive on his line breaks, he's got a great eye for a gap. His kicking was good, giving him the responsibility to kick at goal.

"He took some hits and he showed a great deal of bravery and I thought it was a really, really strong first game from him.

"We have that decision to make. From my point of view he's been waiting patiently for his chance and he's put a real marker down today ahead of next week."

Related