Have your say: Farrell’s progress offers more options for developing England

England have a new look about them, a new belief, a new resolve – and in the talented 20-year-old, a new poster boy.

But there are salutary tales to be aware of for those who place Farrell on a pedestal after only three appearances, not least on the field last Saturday in the guise of Rhys Priestland and Chris Ashton.

Priestland rose to prominence last August as Wales built towards what would be a successful World Cup campaign through their exciting No 10.

At Twickenham three days ago, he was the weak link in Warren Gatland’s side.

Twelve months ago, Ashton could do no wrong, scoring six tries in the opening two games of last year’s championship.

Now he can do no right and would have been dropped were there stronger candidates coming through on the wings.

Farrell is still young, still learning, still growing. His kicking instantly brings to mind Jonny Wilkinson, who faded into memory not too long ago.

Farrell also tackles as robustly and fearlessly as Wilkinson – which might point to a potential future spent splitting time between the pitch and the treatment table.

And as he showed in defeat against Wales, he also has the ability to manage a game at fly-half, either with controlled kicking, a deftness of touch or a genuine appreciation of the core skills.

His versatility could be his greatest asset, having started at inside centre in his first two games in the white of England.

He is also being helped by Stuart Lancaster’s eagerness to nurture him quickly and sensibly, by getting him experienced in the intensity of Test match rugby.

Lancaster’s decision to blood Farrell over Toby Flood in the No 10 shirt for such a pivotal fixture was vindicated, just as many of the head coach’s calculated risks during his impressive tenure have paid off.

And Lancaster knows the importance of not rushing Farrell right now.

“He’s still young, he’s still learning, and I’m sure there’ll be things he looks back on, but by and large it was a great first appearance for England at fly-half,” said Lancaster.

“We trusted Owen’s ability and he repaid that trust.

“Owen has had the ability in training to control a game.

“You learn about someone’s temperament in training as well as in the game, and that’s what gives you the confidence to play them in that role.

“We’ve got some options now going into France – long-term, Owen’s got a future at 10 and 12.

“He looked comfortable at 10, and we need to develop more than one No 10. We cannot have a situation where we just have Charlie (Hodgson) or Toby.”

For his part, Farrell will play wherever he is asked.

“I just want to be out there on the field playing rugby,” he said.

“I’m happy to play wherever I’m needed.

“It’s what every kid dreams of, playing here as an English rugby player. I’m one of those lucky enough to have done it.”

Lancaster has named a 32-man group for training at Loughborough University this week.

It includes all 22 players involved against Wales along with Saracens fly-half Charlie Hodgson, who missed last Saturday’s game because of a finger injury, and former Leeds lock Tom Palmer.

Wales have climbed above England in the latest International Rugby Board world rankings.

Wales are up to fifth, swapping positions with England, who drop to sixth. The top four countries at the end of this year will be the seeded teams at the 2015 World Cup in England.