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In November 2024, England fly-half Ford appeared disappointed at Allianz Stadium.

The replacement was brought on from the bench to assist England close out an historic victory against New Zealand, yet missed a decisive kick and drop-goal while his team lost in a close contest.

Following those costly misses, Ford had to work hard to get another shot to achieve success for England.

He played only 25 minutes throughout the Six Nations tournament yet multiple impressive performances, particularly on the summer tour of Argentina and the United States when the Smith players were away on Lions team responsibilities, reestablished him strongly among starting candidates.

At 32 years old fully validated Steve Borthwick's faith by selecting him facing the Kiwis, plus the club standout produced a man-of-the-match display to support the home team to their initial victory over New Zealand at home for the first time since 2012.

The crucial point occurred as Ford nailed back-to-back drop-goals just before the break.

This assisted England overcome a 12-0 deficit to trail 12-11 when the half ended, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves repeatedly excelled during the final period to support England to a comfortable 33-19 triumph.

"Recognition should be offered to the senior players in our team, especially George," the manager commented. "That period where he hit those drop-goals, he controlled the match remarkably well.

"One year earlier I believed Ford substituted and competed exceptionally well [facing the Kiwis].

"A kick hit the post and he tried a pressured drop-kick, yet he performed excellently.

"He's a tremendous guide, a superb performer plus a better human being. We are honored to feature him within our roster."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

The All Blacks started quickly during the match, building a substantial early margin via touchdowns by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

Following Ollie Lawrence's impressive score, Ford's back-to-back drop-kicks ensured England entered the changing rooms with psychological advantage.

"The difficult aspect during those periods comes when the board shows twelve to zero, we are able to adhere to our guns and our convictions the best way to perform is," Ford said.

"We got ourselves back into contention and we knew if we started the latter half effectively, with substitutes entering, we were in an advantageous spot.

"Despite having 15 minutes left, we were positioned on our own line following a card, so we had challenges during that phase also.

"In my opinion that represents elite competition requires - who can deal during those situations most effectively."

The two attempts occurred within a two-minute span as Ford who executed three crucial kicks in a successful match against Argentina in the last global tournament, displayed his complete century of caps experience.

Ford hit two three-pointers with Sale in a league contest occurring during challenging weather versus Bath - this represents an ability he has mastered thoroughly.

"It [the drop-goals] form part of our strategy," Ford continued.

"Borthwick represents a phenomenal leader that he is always advising me, and correctly so as three points are crucial at any stage of the game."

Ford marshalled his side brilliantly throughout the match the entire match, making smart decisions - both to compete and identifying openings behind the visitors' backfield.

His trademark 'spiral bomb' additionally troubled the New Zealand player, who failed to regather.

Following his start in England's win over Australia during the autumn series, Ford relinquished the number 10 jersey to Fin Smith against Fiji a week later.

Yet the most significant examination theoretically this season was presented by the three-time world champions, so Ford returned to his spot.

England, now on a run of 10 straight wins, meet Argentina this month and it will be interesting to determine whether the coach returns to Fin Smith or persists with Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford demonstrated two years away from a World Cup that significant amounts of career ahead in him.