England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson could be still be picked for the Lions tour without playing any part in this year's Six Nations campaign. Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward told BBC Radio Five Live he would take a fit Wilkinson even if his latest knee injury means he misses all five games.
He said: "It is not a pre-requisite that Jonny plays in the Six Nations.
"He obviously needs to be playing some rugby before the trip, but he's got plenty of time."
Sir Clive added: "Obviously, I would love him to play in the Six Nations.
"But if he is coming back from a knee injury and he is going to miss the first two or three games, it is going to be a bit of a surprise, I think, if he makes the last two.
"Obviously, he would have to get a couple of games in for his club Newcastle before (England coach) Andy (Robinson) could consider him.
"We need him fit to go on the trip and we do not leave for New Zealand until 23 May.
"If Jonny is there, fantastic; if he is not there, there are also other outstanding guys playing in his position."
MMIX
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