The argument for not playing Piutau is that he's started the last three tests and in the past, the selectors have been reluctant to give youngsters more than three consecutive starts. Julian Savea sat out a test against South Africa in Johannesburg last year for that reason and Piutau may be asked to do the same.
It would be a tough call given his contribution of late but, at 22, Piutau may benefit longer term from being given next week off. The danger with that, though, is that he's in form and his confidence is growing.
There's also the unavoidable truth that the All Blacks need him more than they would like to admit at the moment. Cory Jane went well in his first test after knee surgery but there will be some reluctance to pitch him in against England. Savea is expected to have recovered from his flu.
There will be three men deserving of a spot but only two can make it. Piutau is a good problem but he's still a problem.