Stuart Barnes: Marcus Smith ‘better’ than All Black Beauden Barrett
Marcus Smith has been praised by Stuart Barnes as one of the "very best young players in the world”.
Former England fly-half Barnes believes Smith is "better" than All Blacks star Beauden Barrett.
Smith has impressed for Harlequins and England this season, and Barnes has been particularly impressed with his ability to control the game.
Barnes said:
“Marcus Smith is in that bracket of the very best young players in the world. I think he is better than Beauden Barrett at the moment.
“He has got an ability to control a game probably better than any other young fly-half in the world at the moment.”
Smith made his England debut in the Six Nations and has since started twice for his country during their summer tour of Australia.
Barnes believes that Smith has the potential to become one of the best fly-halves in the world.
He said: “He is a very, very good player and I think he has got the potential to be one of the best fly-halves in the world.
“He is still young and has a lot to learn, but he has all the attributes to be a top player.”
Smith will be hoping to continue his impressive form when he lines up for Harlequins against Saracens in the Premiership on Saturday.
