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Back in November 2024, England fly-half Ford cut a dejected figure on the Allianz Stadium turf.

Ford had been summoned as a substitute to support England complete an historic victory against New Zealand, but instead failed to convert a decisive kick along with a drop-kick while his team were beaten by two points.

After those expensive errors, Ford had to work hard to get another shot to bring victory for the national side.

He saw just 25 minutes of action throughout the Six Nations tournament however a series of impressive performances, especially during the summer matches of Argentina and the United States as Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were away on Lions team responsibilities, reestablished him strongly as a starting option.

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 home team to a breakthrough triumph over New Zealand on home soil for the first time since 2012.

The pivotal moment in the game Ford nailed two drop-goals in succession right before half-time.

It helped England overcome a 12-0 deficit to trail 12-11 by halftime, before Borthwick's star-studded bench once more performed during the final period to assist the team to a convincing 33-19 win.

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

"One year earlier In my view George entered and performed very effectively [versus the All Blacks].

"One kick struck the post and he tried a difficult drop-goal, yet he performed excellently.

"He's a tremendous guide, a brilliant player and an even finer individual. We are honored to feature him on our team."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

New Zealand began rapidly during the match, racing into a twelve-point advantage through scores from two key players.

Following Ollie Lawrence's impressive score, Ford's back-to-back drop-kicks resulted in the home side returned to the changing rooms with renewed energy.

"The challenging thing at those times occurs as the display indicates twelve to zero, we must maintain to our strategy and our philosophy the best way to play the game is," Ford stated.

"We fought our way back into contention and we understood were we to commence the second half well, with substitutes entering, we found ourselves in an advantageous spot.

"Even with a quarter-hour remaining, we were positioned on our own line after a penalty, meaning we faced difficulties during that phase also.

"I think that's what international rugby involves - who can deal during those situations superiorly."

The two attempts occurred within a two-minute span as Ford who successfully converted three drop-kicks during a victory versus Argentina at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, displayed his complete 104-cap experience.

Ford successfully executed two drop-kicks representing Sale during a Premiership match played in tough circumstances at Bath - this represents an ability he has mastered thoroughly.

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

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

Ford guided his team superbly across the pitch the complete contest, kicking smartly - for both attacking and defensive purposes and locating gaps against the defensive line.

His trademark tactical bomb additionally troubled Beauden Barrett, who mishandled the ball.

After beginning England's win against Australia during the autumn series, Ford passed on the number 10 jersey to his replacement against Fiji seven days later.

But the biggest test in terms of difficulty was presented by the experienced New Zealand team, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

England, currently enjoying an unbeaten streak of ten, play against Argentina in late November creating intrigue to discover if the manager opts to Fin Smith or maintains Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford proved with two years remaining from a World Cup that significant amounts of rugby left within him.