Smith could be hit for Six

FEARS OVER MARCUS AHEAD OF OPENER

- ADAM HATHAWAY

MARCUS SMITH has handed England an injury scare just five days before their Six Nations opener in Italy.

The playmaker limped out of training yesterday at their base at a golf complex just outside Girona and arrived back at the team hotel with crutches.

Smith was rushed to hospital for a scan on his injured leg and if that brings bad news, it throws a spanner in the works of England's plans 

The 24-year-old was favourite to start at 10 against the Italians but boss Steve Borthwick could be forced to begin with George Ford or Northampton rookie Fin Smith.