Six Nations: Italy match could be Johnstone’s last

Italy’s final Lloyds TSB Six Nations game against England in Rome could well be coach Brad Johnstone’s last after the New Zealander revealed he is considering his position.

Johnstone, who yesterday recalled Benetton centre Walter Pozzebon to his 23-man squad now that he has recovered from the back injury which has sidelined him since November, has a contract with the Italian Rugby Federation (IRF) until after the 2003 World Cup.

But he has not had the full support of the IRF this season.

Speculation is rife in Italian rugby circles that the IRF will discuss Johnstone’s future after the England game on April 7.

He said: ‘‘I have a contract with the national team until the end of the World Cup but I will evaluate the situation after the Six Nations.’’