Six Nations News: Sean Lamont has dismissed suggestions that transfer talk surrounding players in the Scotland squad affected their performance in the defeat against Italy.

Several key members of the squad are poised to leave the club scene in Scotland, a move which will not go down well with coach Frank Hadden, who prefers his players to play for the country's three professional sides.

Simon Taylor, the golden boy of Scottish rugby, was linked with a move to French Cup giants Stade Français on the morning of the game while Rob Dewey confirmed his move to Ulster yesterday and Scott Lawson is poised to join Sale.

Lamont shrugged off the implication that uncertainty over club futures may have played a part in the defeat. "Okay, you might give your team-mates a bit of ribbing about moving here or there but it's nothing serious and certainly nothing to affect your performances or mentality for the game. That's about it."

Dewey, a powerful inside centre, starts a two-year contract with Ulster next season. His signature is a genuine coup for Ulster rugby especially considering Paddy Wallace is expected to move permanently to outhalf.