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Rugby Union

Gatland "close" to Wales job

05/11/2007

Former Wasps coach Warren Gatland has revealed he is "fairly close" to agreeing a deal to take over the Welsh national team.

The New Zealander, who was Eddie O'Sullivan's predecessor as Ireland coach between 1998 and 2001, is currently a technical advisor at Super 14 side the Waikato Chiefs and manages the Waikato National Provincial Championship team.

Providing the ongoing talks between Gatland and the Welsh Rugby Football Union (RFU) go well, he could be unveiled as the successor to Gareth Jenkins - who was sacked after Wales' pool-stage exit from the World Cup - as early as the end of the week.

He said: "We have a few things to work out. Nothing is finalised but we are fairly close.

"They are fairly keen to have me and I am very interested in the job.

"The challenge is appealing. The scene is a lot like New Zealand, it's a goldfish bowl. I loved Britain. I had a fantastic time here and really enjoyed it."

Gatland said he believes he "could not be joining [Welsh rugby] at a better time".

"They are tenth in the world and the only way is up. And what a start, against England at Twickenham in the Six Nations," he continued.

"I hope to have made my mind up before I return to New Zealand next week. I have a few things to discuss with my family."