Marcus Smith will be part of England’s World Cup squad after Steve Borthwick revealed his desire to have three fly halves at the tournament in France

Marcus Smith is set to be included in England’s World Cup squad after head coach Steve Borthwick confirmed on Thursday he plans to take three fly halves to France.

The box-office prodigy Harlequins lost his starting spot to Owen Farrell at the Six Nations and George Ford’s return from injury sparked speculation that Smith could miss the cut when 33 players are named for the global showpiece on Monday.

But after announcing his line-up to face Wales in Cardiff in Saturday’s warm-up, Borthwick revealed he will keep his trio of playmakers in droves.

Asked how many No 10s he plans to select, he said: ‘Right now I have a pretty clear frame. In those key positions you need three players who can play that position.

England coach Steve Borthwick revealed that he plans to bring three fly halves to the tournament

‘With the number of cards being issued and HIAs (Head Injury Assessments), you have to have depth for those specialist functions. You must be protected.’

While Smith is currently regarded as third in the Red Rose fly-half hierarchy, behind Farrell and Ford, he will be ranked 10 against Wales and Borthwick added: ‘I rate Marcus exceptionally highly.

“I have been very impressed with him during this camp and in all my interactions with him.”

Smith starts Saturday’s pre-tournament warm-up match against Wales in Cardiff ranked number 10

Smith is likely to be along with Owen Farrell and George Ford as options for England at the fly-half