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During November 2024, English number 10 Ford appeared disappointed at Allianz Stadium.

The replacement was brought on as a substitute to assist England secure a memorable triumph against New Zealand, yet was unable to score a crucial penalty plus a drop-goal attempt as England fell short by two points.

After those expensive errors, the player was required to strive to secure another chance to bring victory for England.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes throughout the Six Nations tournament however a series of strong showings, particularly on the summer tour against Argentina and the USA while Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were away on Lions tour commitments, returned him solidly in the starting mix.

At 32 years old did more than justify Steve Borthwick's faith by selecting him versus New Zealand, plus the club standout delivered a player-of-the-match performance to help England to a first win over New Zealand at home for the first time since 2012.

The crucial point came when Ford converted back-to-back drop-goals immediately preceding halftime.

This assisted England bounce back from being down 12-0 to trail 12-11 by halftime, before Borthwick's star-studded bench repeatedly excelled in the second half to help his side to a decisive 33-19 victory.

"You have to give credit to the veteran members on our squad, particularly Ford," the coach stated. "That period as he scored those drop-goals, he managed the game absolutely brilliantly.

"One year earlier In my view George entered and performed exceptionally well [against New Zealand].

"A attempt hit the upright and he had a difficult drop-goal, however his play was outstanding.

"He's an exceptional captain, an outstanding athlete and an even finer individual. We are privileged to feature him on our team."

Drop-kicks 'consistently planned'

The Kiwis commenced strongly in the stadium, building a twelve-point advantage through scores from Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

After Lawrence's strong try, Ford's consecutive drop-goals resulted in the home side bounced into the halftime break with renewed energy.

"The tough part in those moments is, when the scoreboard says 12-0, we are able to adhere to our plan and what we believe the optimal approach to compete is," Ford stated.

"We worked our way back into contention and we understood were we to commence the latter half effectively, as reserves joined, we found ourselves in a favorable situation.

"Although facing 15 minutes left, we found ourselves on our own line after a penalty, meaning we faced difficulties in that instance too.

"I think that's what international rugby involves - who can deal in those circumstances the best."

Each effort came within a two-minute span while the number 10 who successfully converted three crucial kicks during a victory facing the Argentine team during the 2023 World Cup, demonstrated his full international experience.

Ford converted two drop-goals for Sale during a Premiership match conducted in challenging weather against Bath - this represents an ability he has extensively practiced.

"The drop-kicks is always in the plan," Ford continued.

"Steve is such an incredible coach that he is always in my ear about it, and appropriately since three points are crucial at any stage of competition."

Ford marshalled his team superbly across the pitch the complete contest, kicking smartly - both in contestable situations and locating gaps in the opposition's territory.

His signature high spiral kick also bamboozled the opposing fullback, who failed to regather.

After beginning the English victory against Australia in early November, Ford handed over the fly-half position to the younger Smith for the Fiji victory a week later.

However the greatest challenge in terms of difficulty was presented by the experienced New Zealand team, and Ford reclaimed his starting role.

The English team, presently maintaining ten consecutive victories, meet Argentina this month and it will be interesting to learn whether the coach returns to Fin Smith or continues with Ford.

Whichever decision is made, Ford established two years away prior to global competition that there is plenty of play remaining for him.