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

He was called upon as a substitute to support the home side close out an historic victory versus the All Blacks, however missed a decisive kick plus a drop-goal attempt as his side were beaten by two points.

Following those costly misses, the player was required to strive to earn another opportunity at delivering glory for the national side.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes in the recent Six Nations but a string of strong showings, especially during the summer tour versus Argentine and American teams while Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were absent for Lions tour commitments, put him firmly back in the starting mix.

The veteran player fully validated Steve Borthwick's faith through his selection facing the Kiwis, plus the club standout achieved a best-player showing to assist the home team to a breakthrough triumph against the All Blacks on home soil ending a drought dating to 2012.

The pivotal moment occurred as Ford nailed two drop-goals in succession just before the break.

It helped England recover from 12-0 down to reduce the margin to 12-11 at the break, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves again delivered during the final period to assist the team to a comfortable 33-19 win.

"You have to give credit to the experienced players on our squad, particularly Ford," the coach stated. "During that phase when he converted those drop-goals, he controlled the match remarkably well.

"Twelve months ago I thought George entered and performed really well [against New Zealand].

"A kick hit the post while he attempted a pressured drop-kick, however his play was outstanding.

"He's an exceptional captain, an outstanding athlete plus a better human being. We are fortunate to feature him on our team."

Drop-kicks 'consistently planned'

New Zealand started quickly during the match, building a twelve-point advantage with tries by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

Following Ollie Lawrence's powerful finish, Ford's consecutive drop-kicks meant the hosts entered the changing rooms with renewed energy.

"The difficult aspect during those periods occurs as the display indicates a twelve-point deficit, we must maintain to our plan and our convictions the superior method to play the game is," Ford stated.

"We worked our way back into contention and we knew were we to commence the final period strongly, with substitutes entering, we were in a good position.

"Even with fifteen minutes to go, we were positioned on our own line with a yellow card, thus we encountered obstacles during that phase also.

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

Each effort happened within a two-minute span while the number 10 who successfully converted three drop-goals during a victory against Argentina at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, demonstrated his full international experience.

Ford successfully executed two drop-goals for Sale during a Premiership match conducted in challenging weather versus Bath - this demonstrates a talent he is well-practised in.

"These attempts is always in the plan," Ford continued.

"Borthwick represents a phenomenal leader since he continually in my ear about it, and appropriately since three points prove important throughout the match of competition."

Ford marshalled England excellently around the field the complete contest, making smart decisions - both to compete and identifying openings against the defensive line.

His trademark high spiral kick further confused the New Zealand player, who failed to regather.

Having started England's win against Australia on 1 November, Ford passed on the starting role to the younger Smith against Fiji seven days later.

Yet the most significant examination in terms of difficulty came against the multiple World Cup winners, and Ford reclaimed his position.

The English team, currently enjoying 10 straight wins, play against Argentina on 23 November creating intrigue to discover if Borthwick goes back to Fin Smith or continues with Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford demonstrated two years away prior to global competition that significant amounts of career ahead within him.