Wednesday 6 March 2019 16:58, UK
Maro Itoje will not be risked against Italy on Saturday unless he proves he is fully fit, says England defensive coach John Mitchell.
Itoje is a doubt for the match at Twickenham after limping out of training on Tuesday and missed training on Wednesday.
He had been aiming to return to action after damaging knee ligaments during the opening-round victory against Ireland.
"We will give him every chance to make the weekend," Mitchell said. "He took a little knock on that knee that's been annoying him. Before we make the decision we need to check if he is fully healthy.
"There is no need to take risks. We will be smart in that area. If he is right he will be ready to go if he is not we will make the right decision for the team."
Itoje was replaced in the second half of England's win over Ireland and the prognosis for his return was two to four weeks.
