‘Warren Gatland’s absence did not contribute to Wales loss’
Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards insists Warren Gatland's absence did not contribute to their 26-12 loss to Argentina
Warren Gatland’s absence was not a factor in Wales’ 26-12 defeat by Argentina at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday, according to defence coach Shaun Edwards.
The New Zealander has placed Rob Howley in temporary charge of the Six Nations champions after he was appointed as the British and Irish Lions head coach.
Wales, who are looking to break into the top four in the world to be one of the first seeds for the 2015 World Cup, were left humiliated by a dominant Pumas’ display.
But Edwards does not believe Wales missed Gatland’s input, insisting the Lions boss is in constant contact with Howley.
“We didn’t miss him [Gatland] at the weekend,” Edwards told BBC Sport.
“Warren’s been fully part of the preparations, really, in that, as regards selection, he spoke to Rob, he speaks to Rob every day.
“And I think any team… I’ve come out and said this before, Gats is probably the best coach in the world so we’re pretty lucky in Wales to have him and did we miss him at the weekend?
“Really the fact that he’d been there throughout the preparations, I’d have to say no, we didn’t miss him at the weekend.
“But would we miss Warren Gatland if he left Wales?
“Of course we would, because in my opinion he’s one of the premier coaches in the whole rugby world.”
