Eddie Jones warns France will face an improved George Furbank this weekend

George Furbank returns to the setting where he made his inauspicious England debut two years ago amid a warning to France that he has developed into a far more potent player.

Anticipating an aerial onslaught at the Stade de France, Eddie Jones has selected Furbank to start Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash at full-back with Freddie Steward moving to the right wing.

It will add to England’s presence in the backfield with Jack Nowell, who can also operate in the 15 jersey, completing a back three designed to negate the Grand Slam-chasing hosts’ kicking game.

Furbank will be making his maiden appearance of the tournament and his first in Paris since struggling in difficult conditions amid a losing opener in the 2020 Six Nations.

Another start against Scotland followed but he was then jettisoned from the squad with his total of five caps reflecting the 25-year-old Northampton back’s inability to nail down consistent selection.

“We see George as a valuable player going forward. In the modern game, in terms of full-back, he has all the repertoire to be successful,” Jones said.

“He can also fill in at fly-half, which we saw against Tonga in the autumn, and he’s been doing that for his club.

“Because of the way that France play, we think he’s the best full-back and Freddie’s the best winger for us. For this game. It’s a one-off selection.

“It’s funny how the cycle goes. In two years, George has gone from being a debutant to now playing the biggest game of his career up to this stage – and he’s well-equipped to handle it.

“Most young players go through a fair bit of ups and downs. The ability to learn from the downs is so important, and the ability to use the resources around is important.

“He’s a young player that had a