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This marks a curious feature of England's autumn perfect record that there were no debutants made their first cap during the recent campaign, something not seen in 25 years. Yet, Max Ojomoh's showing against Argentina while securing his second appearance seemed to be the arrival of a future star.

Star Performance in Tight Win

Ojomoh was the star turn in what was the team's least convincing performance of the November series. He scored the opening touchdown before creating the remaining two. His assist for Immanuel Feyi-Waboso via a exquisite long pass was the champagne moment of the first half. Similarly, his popped pass to Henry Slade for the team's third try was just as eye-catching, concluding a fine first outing at Twickenham for the young player.

Ojomoh possesses the sort of triple threat that every manager would want from their midfield player. He can run, kick and pass, and he has featured at number ten and at multiple midfield roles for his club this campaign.

Rapid Ascent and Upcoming Prospects

It is just a little over a week since Steve Borthwick might have felt he had finally unearthed his centre partnership for the long term. But, the best compliment that can be given to the young star is that Borthwick may have to think again. Ojomoh was initially selected to an national team four years ago, but had to wait until the last game of the summer tour to make his debut. Injuries to teammates paved the way for Ojomoh to start here, and he surely will be in consideration for a third cap when the squad regroup to start their championship quest in the new year.

• Versatile Skillset: Can play number ten and midfield.
• Crucial Input: Scored one try and assisted two.
• Important Performance: Delivered when teammates were unavailable.

Team Context and Wider Implications

How would England have been against their opponents without Ojomoh? Certainly they had some fortune and perhaps it is not surprising that he was their best player. The team experienced an inevitable drop-off in intensity following a significant victory over the All Blacks. Maybe the coach should have freshened things up.

A balanced view is required, however. It is tempting to lambast England for their failure to bring much urgency into this contest, or for nearly losing a game they were controlling. However, this result marks a perfect record of November matches for the first time since 2016. The year concludes with 11 straight wins after beginning with a defeat. The team is midway in the World Cup cycle and things look considerably rosier for the coach than they did previously.

Squad Depth and Future Planning

Borthwick gives the impression that, with time remaining from the World Cup, he knows the vast majority of the team he will take to Australia. Naturally, there will be the surprise inclusion. But there are very few current members of the roster who are not in contention for the 2027 tournament.

This is an benefit because it was a problem for his preceding coach, who found it difficult when it became apparent that veterans were not going to play in his plans. Borthwick seems to have grasped the nettle earlier, avoiding the difficult beginning that plagued the team in the past.

Depth charts seem like they are for sailors of the past, but managers rely on them and the coach can be satisfied with his. On another day, the team might be dealing with a loss after a heartbreaking late defeat. That they were not owes plenty to the young star, fortune, and the strength of England's bench. As the coach plots a course to the championship, he has wind in England's sails after 11 wins in a row, and as a result we can forgive the paucity of this performance.