O’Shea given Joe’s backing

– Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has thrown his weight behind Italy counterpart Conor O’Shea (above) amid suggestions the Azzurri’s Six Nations status could eventually come under threat from Georgia and Romania.

Italy began this year’s tournament with renewed hope and confidence following a historic 20-18 win over South Africa in the November test series.

But despite glimpses of promise in their opening two games at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy are staring at a likely 12th wooden spoon in 18 editions following defeats to Wales (33-7) and Ireland, who registered their highest ever Six Nations away win over Italy in a nine-try, 63-10 romp on Saturday.

In 2015 Octavian Morariu, the president of Rugby Union’s governing body for promotion and development, called for Georgia and Romania’s entry to the Six Nations following their successes on the European stage and some good showings in the rugby World Cup.

O’Shea said on Saturday there is “no debate” and New Zealander Schmidt was quick to prop up that belief. He believes O’Shea’s track record of previous success will help Italy overcome their curent teething problems and make them competitive again.

“To coin a phrase, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ – I think he (O’Shea) will build something,” said Schmidt, who led Ireland to an historic win over the All Blacks last year.

“He’s got a track record for being able to build systems and a structure and a belief in a group that can be competitive.

“When he went in to Harlequins, they weren’t the competitive animal that they became. They (Italy) have some really good players.” –

Milan