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Back in November 2024, English number 10 Ford appeared disappointed on the Allianz Stadium turf.

The replacement was brought on off the sidelines to help the hosts secure a famous win against New Zealand, however was unable to score a decisive kick and drop-goal as his side were beaten by two points.

Following those costly misses, Ford needed to put in effort to secure another chance to achieve success for the national side.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes during this year's Six Nations however a series of impressive performances, notably in the summer tour versus Argentine and American teams as Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were away on British and Irish Lions duty, returned him solidly in the starting mix.

The veteran player did more than justify Steve Borthwick's faith in starting him versus New Zealand, and the Sharks star produced a man-of-the-match display to assist the hosts to a breakthrough triumph over New Zealand on home soil since 2012.

The decisive instant came when Ford successfully executed two drop-goals in succession right before half-time.

This assisted England bounce back from being down 12-0 to trail 12-11 by halftime, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves again delivered in the second half to assist the team to a decisive 33-19 victory.

"Recognition should be offered to the senior players within our side, especially George," the coach stated. "In that moment when he converted those drop-kicks, he directed play absolutely brilliantly.

"Twelve months ago I believed Ford came on and played exceptionally well [facing the Kiwis].

"A attempt hit the upright while he attempted a drop-goal under pressure, yet he performed excellently.

"He is a phenomenal leader, a superb performer and an even finer individual. We are fortunate to include him within our roster."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

New Zealand started quickly during the match, racing into a 12-point lead via touchdowns by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

Following Ollie Lawrence's strong try, the fly-half's successive drop-goals meant the hosts bounced into the locker room with psychological advantage.

"The tough part in those moments is, when the scoreboard says 12-0, we must maintain to our plan and our convictions the best way to perform is," Ford stated.

"We got ourselves back into contention and we knew were we to commence the latter half effectively, with the bench coming on, we were in an advantageous spot.

"Although facing 15 minutes left, we found ourselves on our own line with a yellow card, so we had challenges during that phase also.

"I think that's what Test rugby is - which team can handle with those moments most effectively."

Each effort came within a two-minute span while the number 10 who executed three drop-goals during a victory facing the Argentine team at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, displayed his complete 104-cap experience.

Ford successfully executed two drop-goals representing Sale in a Prem game occurring during difficult conditions against Bath - it is a skill he is well-practised in.

"These attempts form part of our strategy," Ford added.

"The coach is such a phenomenal leader since he continually advising me, and appropriately because three points is valuable throughout the match of competition."

Ford directed his team superbly across the pitch all game, making smart decisions - both to compete and identifying openings behind the visitors' backfield.

His signature tactical bomb also bamboozled the opposing fullback, who mishandled the ball.

After beginning England's win against Australia in early November, Ford passed on the starting role to his replacement during the Fiji match the following week.

However the greatest challenge in terms of difficulty occurred versus the experienced New Zealand team, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

The national side, presently maintaining ten consecutive victories, play against Argentina this month and curiosity remains to determine if the manager opts for the younger Smith or maintains Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford demonstrated with two years remaining from a World Cup that significant amounts of play remaining for him.