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It is a interesting feature of England's autumn perfect record that no new players made their first cap during the series of matches, something not seen in 25 years. However, Max Ojomoh's display against Argentina while securing his second cap seemed to be the arrival of a future star.

Star Display in Hard-Fought Win

Ojomoh was the key player in what was England's least convincing outing of the November series. He scored the opening touchdown before setting up the other two. His assist for Immanuel Feyi-Waboso via a exquisite cross-field kick was the champagne moment of the first half. Similarly, his quick offload to the center for the team's third try was just as eye-catching, concluding a fine debut performance at the home stadium for the young player.

He has the sort of versatile skillset that all coaches desire from their midfield player. His abilities include running, kicking, and passing, and he has appeared at number ten and at multiple midfield roles for his club this season.

Rapid Ascent and Upcoming Prospects

Only a little over a week since Steve Borthwick could have believed he had discovered his midfield duo for the future. However, the highest praise that can be given to Ojomoh is that Borthwick might need to think again. He was initially selected to an national team four years ago, but had to wait until the last game of the summer tour to earn his first cap. Injuries to teammates paved the way for Ojomoh to start here, and he undoubtedly will be in contention for a third cap when the squad regroup to begin their championship quest in the coming months.

• Multiple Abilities: Can play fly-half and centre.
• Key Contributions: Scored one try and assisted two.
• Timely Impact: Stepped up when teammates were injured.

Squad Background and Wider Significance

How would England have fared against Argentina without Ojomoh? Undoubtedly they had some fortune and perhaps it is not surprising that he was their best player. England showed an natural decline in intensity following a significant victory over the All Blacks. Perhaps the coach should have freshened things up.

A balanced view is required, however. It is tempting to criticize the side for their inability to inject much urgency into this match, or for nearly losing a fixture they were dominating. However, this outcome completes a perfect record of November matches for the first time since 2016. The year concludes with 11 straight wins after starting with a defeat. The team is halfway through the World Cup cycle and things look much more positive for Borthwick than they did at this stage.

Squad Depth and Future Planning

Borthwick gives the impression that, two years out from the World Cup, he understands the core group of the squad he will bring to Australia. Naturally, there will be the odd bolter. Yet there are not many current members of the squad who are not on track for the upcoming event.

This is an benefit because it was a problem for his predecessor, who found it difficult when it became apparent that certain players were not going to feature in his strategy. Borthwick seems to have taken action earlier, avoiding the torrid beginning that affected the team in the previous cycle.

Player rankings seem like they are for seafarers of yesteryear, but managers swear by them and Borthwick can be satisfied with his. On another day, the team might be nursing their wounds after a gut-wrenching late defeat. The fact they avoided that owes plenty to the young star, luck, and the quality of the substitutes. As the coach plots a course to the championship, he has positive momentum after an unbeaten run, and as a result we can forgive the lack of quality of this performance.