Ronan O’Gara linked with Italy ahead of Six Nations

Conor O’Shea is poised to become the first Irish coach of another Six Nations country as Italy step up their pursuit of Harlequins’ director of rugby.

O’Shea (45) has confirmed he has held talks with the Italian Federation about the possibility of replacing Jacques Brunel after next year’s Six Nations campaign. And Irish legend Ronan O’Gara has already been linked as part of a potentially exciting management team.

O’Gara declined to comment on the speculation when contacted last night, but such a move seems unlikely at this early stage of his coaching career.