Rugby: Larkham sees future for Giteau at No 12

Matt Giteau of the Brumbies runs through the tackle of John Afoa of the Blues. Photo / Getty Images

Stephen Larkham learned a thing or two about backplay during his 96 tests with the Wallabies.

The gifted playmaker changed his job description from fullback to first five-eighths where his quality production pushed him to World Cup glory and Wallaby legend status.

Larkham is finishing his career with a final season in Japan but on a visit home, suggested the Wallabies would be better served if Matt Giteau was shifted to second five-eighths.

Larkham thought a Will Genia-Quade Cooper-Giteau axis was the most potent combination for the Wallabies and urged national coach Robbie Deans to introduce that alliance in this year's test programme.

Inspection of Giteau's midfield skills will get another analysis tonight when he fronts in the No 12 jersey for the Brumbies against the Chiefs.

Coach Andy Friend accepted midfield was not Giteau's preferred choice but injuries and team needs demanded the move.

"As we've been doing throughout the course of this year, we've been mixing it up at first receiver," he said.

Giteau might wear a different number but he or Matt Toomua could be used as first receivers depending on where the Brumbies were on the field and what play they wanted to instigate in Canberra tonight.

Meanwhile, Larkham said when he made the switch to five-eighths, he had the benefit of Tim Horan playing alongside him where he offered consistent advice and guidance at international level.

That reduced the pressure on him and meant he could forge a better combination with his halfback.

He felt the Wallabies would reap the rewards from a positional switch for Giteau who was working his way back into form on his return to the Brumbies after several years playing with the Force.

Giteau had taken on a huge responsibility directing the Brumbies backline and he would improve as he got to know the players' traits more. He was also experienced at playing in midfield and should transfer that to the Wallabies.