By Simon Austin & Phil Harlow At the RBS Six Nations launch, London

Kirwan has helped turn Italy into a competitive Six Nations side

Smith has been widely linked with a move back to New Zealand as part of new All Blacks coach Graham Henry's staff.

But Kirwan admitted he had been in talks with Northampton and would not commit his long-term future to Italy.

"I'd be an idiot if I didn't look at that opportunity seriously - I think Wayne's put some fantastic systems in place at Northampton" said Kirwan.

He added: "I'll be the happiest man in the world if Italy win the Six Nations in three or four years' time and I'm not here.

It would be a big wrench to go - but this is the All Blacks Saints coach Wayne Smith

"What happens to me personally is not the issue - it's the future of the sport in Italy that I really care about."

Former Wales and Lions coach Henry has put forward his proposed coaching team to the board of the New Zealand Rugby Union.

Northampton 9-18 Scarlets

Smith, who saw his side fail to make the Heineken Cup quarter-finals after defeat against the Scarlets, told BBC Sport: "My name has been mentioned, but that's just anecdotal at the moment.

"I would be tempted by any offer from the All Blacks, but it's a privilege to be here at Northampton.

"I've never felt as at home anywhere before. I love the people here and the club.

"It would be a big wrench to go - but this is the All Blacks."

Northampton revealed they had been in contact with several coaches as they sought to draw up a contingency plan should Smith depart.

"John Steele (Northampton director of rugby) has spoken to some coaches," said a Northampton spokesman.

"We have looked at other people, because we don't want to be caught in the situation Leicester have found themselves in."

Italy begin their Six Nations campaign against England on 15 February in Rome.